Which future U.S. president was the principal drafter of the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson was the principal drafter of the Declaration of Independence.

In June 1776, the Second Continental Congress appointed a Committee of Five to prepare a declaration explaining the colonies’ decision to separate from Great Britain. The committee included Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. Although the group reviewed the work, Jefferson produced the main draft.

Congress edited the document during several days of debate, removing or changing substantial portions before approving it on July 4, 1776. Jefferson’s language about equality, natural rights, and government deriving its legitimacy from the people became especially influential, even though the final text reflected congressional revisions.

Jefferson later became the third president of the United States, serving from 1801 to 1809. He was also vice president under John Adams and had served as governor of Virginia and secretary of state. His role in drafting the Declaration is distinct from George Washington’s role as commander of the Continental Army.