Committee of Five
Introduction
The Committee of Five was a group of five delegates from the Thirteen Colonies who were appointed by the Second Continental Congress in 1776 to draft the Declaration of Independence. This committee played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary period by formalizing the colonies' decision to declare independence from Great Britain. The members of the Committee of Five were John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Robert R. Livingston, and Roger Sherman. Their collaborative efforts culminated in one of the most significant documents in American history.
Formation and Purpose
The formation of the Committee of Five was a strategic decision by the Second Continental Congress, which convened in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776. As tensions with Britain escalated, the need for a formal declaration of independence became apparent. On June 11, 1776, the Congress appointed the Committee of Five to draft a statement justifying the colonies' break from British rule. The committee was tasked with articulating the philosophical and political rationale for independence, drawing upon Enlightenment ideas and the colonies' grievances against King George III.
Members of the Committee
John Adams
John Adams was a prominent lawyer and a leading advocate for independence. As a delegate from Massachusetts, Adams was known for his persuasive oratory and deep commitment to the cause of liberty. His role in the committee was crucial, as he provided significant input into the drafting process and championed the Declaration's adoption.
Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin, representing Pennsylvania, was one of the most respected and influential figures of his time. His diplomatic skills and experience in international affairs were invaluable to the committee. Franklin's contributions to the Declaration were marked by his ability to balance the document's tone, ensuring it was both assertive and conciliatory.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, a delegate from Virginia, was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. His eloquent writing style and profound understanding of Enlightenment philosophy made him the ideal candidate to draft the document. Jefferson's draft would undergo revisions by the committee and Congress, but his original prose remains the foundation of the Declaration.
Robert R. Livingston
Robert R. Livingston was a delegate from New York and a member of a prominent political family. Although he did not sign the final document, Livingston's legal expertise and political acumen contributed to the committee's deliberations. His involvement in the committee underscored the importance of unity among the colonies.
Roger Sherman
Roger Sherman, representing Connecticut, was a seasoned politician and jurist. Known for his pragmatic approach and commitment to consensus-building, Sherman played a key role in the committee's discussions. His presence ensured that the Declaration reflected a broad spectrum of colonial interests.
Drafting the Declaration
The drafting process of the Declaration of Independence was a collaborative effort, with each member of the Committee of Five bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. The committee met several times to discuss the document's content and structure. Jefferson's initial draft was reviewed and revised by the other members, who suggested changes to ensure clarity and coherence.
The draft was then presented to the Continental Congress on June 28, 1776. Over the next few days, the Congress debated and amended the document, with significant input from Adams and Franklin. The final version of the Declaration was adopted on July 4, 1776, marking the official birth of the United States of America.
Philosophical Foundations
The Declaration of Independence drew heavily on Enlightenment ideas, particularly those of John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The document articulated the principles of natural rights, social contract, and popular sovereignty. It asserted that all men are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
The Declaration also outlined the colonies' grievances against King George III, accusing him of violating their rights and undermining their autonomy. This section of the document served as a justification for the colonies' decision to sever ties with Britain and establish an independent nation.
Impact and Legacy
The adoption of the Declaration of Independence had profound implications for the American colonies and the world. It marked the beginning of the United States as a sovereign nation and set a precedent for other countries seeking self-determination. The Declaration's principles of liberty and equality have inspired countless movements for freedom and justice throughout history.
The Committee of Five's work on the Declaration of Independence remains a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring significance of the document they created. Their efforts laid the foundation for the United States' democratic ideals and continue to resonate in contemporary political discourse.