We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.
These inspiring words appear in the Declaration of Independence, which was signed on July 4, 1776 by members of the Second Continental Congress, marking the original 13 colonies’ decision to break free from British rule and establish a sovereign nation. Two hundred and fifty years later, these words continue to serve as a beacon of hope and promise for all who read them.
Today, the Massachusetts House Republican Caucus joins with Americans everywhere to celebrate the signing of this historic document that gave birth to the United States of America. The caucus wishes everyone a very Happy Fourth of July!
