What document was signed in 1776 declaring the American colonies independent from British rule?

The document signed in 1776 that declared the American colonies independent from British rule is the Declaration of Independence. This pivotal document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, articulated the colonies' reasons for seeking independence, outlining their grievances against King George III and articulating the principles of individual rights and government by consent.

The Declaration of Independence is crucial because it not only marked the formal separation of the colonies from Britain but also set forth the ideals of liberty and self-governance that would influence future democratic movements around the world. This act of declaring independence was a bold step toward establishing a nation built on the principles of democracy and freedom.

In contrast, the Constitution established the framework for the government of the United States after the Revolution, the Magna Carta was a document from 1215 in England that limited the power of the monarchy, and the Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document of the United States after independence but were adopted after the Declaration.