What phrase begins the Declaration of Independence’s famous preamble?
Answer
When in the Course of human events
The Declaration of Independence’s famous preamble begins, “When in the Course of human events.”
The opening sentence introduces the document’s argument that political separation may become necessary when one people must dissolve its connections with another. It then says that respect for the opinions of humanity requires the reasons for that separation to be explained.
The preamble is followed by the declaration’s best-known statement of political principles: that all men are created equal and possess unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The document later presents a list of grievances against King George III and formally announces independence.
The opening is often confused with “We the People,” which begins the United States Constitution, or with phrases from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. Those belong to different documents and historical moments.