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Description
Declaration uncovers the lesser-known stories, surprising twists, and forgotten voices behind the most iconic document in U.S. history.
Robert P. Watson delves into the complex and often misunderstood origins of the Declaration, revealing how a series of missteps by the British Crown, shifting colonial sentiments, and a convergence of enlightened thinkers led to a revolutionary moment that changed the course of history. Drawing from a wealth of primary sources-including letters, diaries, newspapers, and diplomatic communiqués-Watson reconstructs the debates, drafts, and drama that surrounded the Declaration's creation.
Complete with a unique look into the influence of women, enslaved individuals, and indigenous peoples, Declaration brings to light the diverse cast of characters and perspectives that shaped the American experiment. It explores the document's philosophical roots, its political impact, and the enduring struggle to realize its lofty promises of liberty and equality.
Table of Contents
REBELLION
1. Tensions
2. Taxes
3. Massacre
4. Tea
5. Congress
RUBICON
6. Debate
7. Minute
8. Conclave
9. “Independency”
10. 1776
REVOLUTION
11. Sage
12. Draft
13. Inspiration
14. Grievances
15. Changes
REGIME
16. Vote
17. Celebration
18. Global
19. Creed
20. Legacy
Postscript: Liberty
Appendix A. Text of the Declaration of Independence
Appendix B. Signers of the Declaration of Independence
Appendix C. Time Line of Key Events
Notes
Sources
About the Author
Product details
| Published | Feb 05 2026 |
|---|---|
| Format | Hardback |
| Edition | 1st |
| Extent | 336 |
| ISBN | 9798216371557 |
| Imprint | Bloomsbury Academic |
| Dimensions | 9 x 6 inches |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Publishing |
About the contributors
Reviews
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Few documents are as universally recognized – and as deeply revered – as the Declaration of Independence. Yet, for all its familiarity, the story of its creation remains veiled in secrecy. Robert Watson, in this remarkable book, illuminates the mysteries surrounding the painstaking process and deliberations that went into crafting this timeless document, highlighting the often-overlooked human dimension, and in so doing reminds us that even our most celebrated national documents still have mysteries to explore.
Richard M. Yon, United States Military Academy at West Point
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Watson has produced one of the best works in recent memory on the development of the Declaration of Independence and its centrality to the founding of the United States. More significantly, the author compellingly demonstrates how the values and principles of the founding document transcend the political divides that have come to dominate contemporary America.
Tom Lansford, University of Southern Mississippi, Gulf Coast

























