A pivotal historical figure in the establishment of American independence was Thomas Jefferson. As the principal author of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Jefferson articulated the colonies' grievances against British rule and articulated the Enlightenment ideals of liberty and equality. His philosophical arguments laid the foundation for the new nation's values. Jefferson also played a significant role in the early governance of the United States, serving as the first Secretary of State and later as the third President. His vision for an agrarian democracy shaped American political ideology during the revolutionary period and beyond.