What influenced the decision to declare independence from Great Britain?

The decision to declare independence from Great Britain was significantly influenced by the desire for political representation and rights. Colonists felt that they were being subjected to taxation without adequate representation in the British Parliament, which ignited widespread dissatisfaction. The slogan “no taxation without representation” became a rallying cry for those advocating for independence. The lack of a say in legislative matters led to a growing belief that the colonies needed to govern themselves in order to ensure that their rights and liberties were protected. The Enlightenment ideas about democracy, individual rights, and self-governance further fueled this sentiment. Overall, the push for political rights was a fundamental driver behind the quest for independence, distinguishing it as the foremost factor when considering the motivations of the colonists.