The "American founding" refers to the period in the late 18th century when the thirteen colonies in North America declared independence from British rule and established a new nation. This process culminated in the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which articulated the colonies' desire for freedom and self-governance. Following the war for independence, the founding leaders created the U.S. Constitution in 1787, establishing the framework for the federal government. This document outlined the separation of powers and the rights of citizens, laying the foundation for the democratic principles that continue to shape the United States today.