The signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, marked a pivotal moment in American history. This document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, declared the thirteen American colonies free from British rule. It outlined the colonies' grievances against King George III and expressed the fundamental principles of individual rights and government by consent. The American Revolutionary War followed the declaration, lasting from 1775 to 1783. This conflict involved the colonies fighting against British forces to secure their independence. The war concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, officially recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation.