Interpretations and Influences of the Declaration of Independence

This chapter explores various schools of interpretation surrounding the Declaration of Independence, including natural rights, divine providence, and inalienable rights doctrine. It discusses the influences of classical Republicanism, British constitutionalism, and Christian republicanism, shedding light on the United States' role in promoting global declarations of independence through its social compact theory. The chapter also delves into the relationship between Christianity and politics during the American Revolution, examining how the doctrine of social contract theory was used to reconcile conflicts within Christendom.