The French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, adopted in 1789, was a pivotal document in the history of democracy and human rights. It proclaimed fundamental rights and liberties for all individuals, emphasizing principles such as equality, freedom of speech, and the sovereignty of the people. This declaration inspired subsequent movements for democracy and human rights worldwide, influencing later documents such as the U.S. Bill of Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It marked a critical turning point in the fight against feudalism and absolute monarchy, laying the groundwork for modern democratic institutions.