The historical document known as the foundation of the U.S. Constitution is the Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776. This document articulated the American colonies' reasons for seeking independence from British rule and laid the groundwork for a new nation based on principles of freedom and self-governance. It proclaimed the inherent rights of individuals, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration not only inspired the American Revolution but also served as a model for democratic movements around the world. It set forth the idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed, a principle that continues to resonate in modern democratic societies.