The phrase "all men are created equal" is a foundational expression from the United States Declaration of Independence, written primarily by Thomas Jefferson in 1776. It proclaims that all human beings have inherent equality and are endowed with unalienable rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This phrase reflects Enlightenment ideas, influenced by philosophers like John Locke, emphasizing natural rights and the equality of individuals before the law and government. Originally, it was meant to assert the right of American colonists as a people to self-governance and independence rather than individual equality. Over time, it has come to symbolize broader ideals of equal rights for all humanity against social hierarchies and injustices.
Origins and Influences
- The phrase draws heavily from Enlightenment philosophy and earlier classical and medieval ideas about human dignity and equality.
- Thomas Jefferson was influenced by European thinkers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Montesquieu, and John Locke.
- Precedents include the English philosopher John Locke’s "Second Treatise of Government" and earlier medieval religious and legal writings emphasizing equality in the eyes of God.
Historical Context and Interpretation
- In 1776, "all men are created equal" primarily asserted collective political equality and the colonists' right to self-rule.
- The phrase did not initially encompass racial or gender equality, as women and enslaved people were excluded in practice.
- Over time, the phrase was adopted by civil rights activists like Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr., who expanded its meaning to demand equality for all individuals regardless of race or gender.
Enduring Legacy
- It remains a powerful and enduring statement of American political ideals and human rights worldwide.
- The principle has influenced numerous democratic constitutions and human rights documents worldwide, symbolizing universal equality under the law.
This phrase is more than a historical quotation; it constitutes a continuing aspiration for justice and equality in societies around the world.
