Which U.S. document was written to express the colonies' desire for independence from Britain?

The document that articulated the colonies' desire for independence from Britain is the Declaration of Independence. This crucial document, adopted on July 4, 1776, was crafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson and served to formally declare the thirteen American colonies free from British rule. Its content reflects the Enlightenment ideals of natural rights and government by consent, asserting that individuals have unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration outlines the grievances of the colonies against King George III, justifying their break from British authority.

In contrast, the Constitution established the framework for the national government after independence had already been achieved, while the Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document of the United States but lacked strength and effectiveness. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, was created to guarantee individual freedoms and protections, not to express a desire for independence. Each of these other documents plays a vital role in American history, but none was specifically intended to convey the colonies' wish to sever ties with Britain.