The American Revolution significantly shaped democracy by establishing principles of self-governance and individual rights. It challenged the authority of colonial powers, particularly Britain, and emphasized the importance of political representation, culminating in the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and justice laid the groundwork for democratic governance and influenced other nations seeking independence and reform. The success of the Revolution demonstrated that a republic could thrive, inspiring countless democratic movements globally and leading to the creation of the U.S. Constitution, which enshrined these principles into law.