What was the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

The main purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to declare independence from Great Britain. This document, adopted on July 4, 1776, formally announced the American colonies' break from British rule and articulated the colonies’ reasons for seeking independence. It outlined the philosophical foundation for this decision, emphasizing the principles of individual rights and the notion that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed. By declaring independence, the colonies aimed to assert their sovereignty and the right to self-governance, which was a pivotal moment in the establishment of the United States.

The other options, while related to the broader context of the American Revolution, do not accurately capture the primary intention of the Declaration. Establishing a new government would ultimately occur after independence was proclaimed, and outlining a new economic policy or promoting diplomatic relations were not the focus of the document itself. The Declaration served a clear purpose: to declare the colonies free from British control, marking the start of a new nation.