Thomas Jefferson, who was nominated by Ben Franklin, wrote the Declaration in 1776. Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence to explain why they should be "free and independent sates."This is when the US gained its independence from Great Britain. In the Declaration, there were three parts including; Statements of Purpose, Grievances, and Officially breaking ties. Jefferson had written all the grievances towards the King of England This was the first time that "all men were created equal" was ever written down. It was stated that everyone has the right to 'Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of happiness." American ideals that were set forth continue to guide us today.