Which document announced America’s independence from British rule?

The Declaration of Independence is the document that announced America's independence from British rule. Adopted on July 4, 1776, it was a formal statement that declared the thirteen American colonies as independent from the British Empire. The document, primarily drafted by Thomas Jefferson, articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and justified their decision to seek independence. It emphasized the principles of individual rights and government by consent, establishing a foundational philosophy for the new nation.

In contrast, the Constitution is the framework for the U.S. government established later, in 1787, and outlines the structure and powers of government rather than declaring independence. The Articles of Confederation were the first attempt at a governing document for the United States, created in 1781, which also did not declare independence but instead attempted to create a loose alliance among the states. The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, added to protect individual liberties, and was enacted long after independence had already been declared. Thus, the Declaration of Independence distinctly serves the purpose of announcing and justifying the colonies' break from British rule.