It made a few changes in the words and struck out a clause condemning the slave-trade.

The first paragraph of the Declaration contains a short, clear statement of the basis of the American system of government.

It should be learned by heart by every American boy and girl, and always kept in mind.

The Declaration was adopted on July 4, 1776.

A few copies were printed on July 5, with the signatures of John Hancock and Charles Thompson, president and secretary of Congress.