Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson. He was selected to draft the document by the Continental Congress in 1776 due to his eloquence and skill in writing. Jefferson's language articulated the colonies' desire for independence from British rule and outlined the philosophical foundations for that claim, strongly influenced by Enlightenment ideas about natural rights and government by consent.

While George Washington was a prominent leader during the American Revolution, he did not participate in writing the Declaration. James Madison, often referred to as the "Father of the Constitution," was instrumental in shaping the U.S. Constitution but was not involved in the drafting of the Declaration. Benjamin Franklin, a significant figure and diplomat, contributed to the Revolutionary cause and served on the committee that oversaw the Declaration's adoption but did not author it. Thus, Jefferson's role as the chief writer makes him the correct answer to the question.