THIS DAY IN 1776 - June 12, 1776

[00:00:00]June 12th, 1776.

[00:00:04]On this day, Virginia adopted its Declaration of Rights.

[00:00:09]Drafted primarily by George Mason, it asserted that all men are by nature free and independent.

[00:00:17]It declared that government derives its powers from the people.

[00:00:21]This document deeply influenced Thomas Jefferson.

[00:00:25]The language of natural rights, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness echoes these principles.

[00:00:33]Virginia was not waiting for Congress.

[00:00:36]It was building Republican government at the state level.

[00:00:40]Meanwhile, in Congress, the drafting committee continued refining the Declaration.

[00:00:47]Edits sharpened indictment of King George III.

[00:00:52]Military pressure intensified. British forces prepared to strike New York.

[00:00:58]Political philosophy and together.

[00:01:04]June 12th marks a critical moment. The theory of independence was being codified into law.