Declaration of Independence Rough Draft VS Final Draft
Here we will make a brief comparison between the Rough Draft and the Final Draft of the Declaration of Independence.
So, let’s find out, how they are different from each other:
1. Difference Number One
The Rough Draft was the earliest copy of the Declaration of Independence; but, the Final Draft was the final edited copy extracted from the Rough Draft.
Congress and the Committee of five made around 86 extensive changes in the Rough Draft for producing the final document.
2. Difference Number Two
The Rough Draft of the Declaration of Independence was written by the Committee of five delegates appointed by the Second Continental Congress, where Thomas Jefferson was the main author.
While writing this one, the Continental Congress didn’t take any part.
But, on the other hand, while creating the Final Draft, the Continental Congress took a very significant role.
Before ratifying, they made too many changes to the Committee’s work.
3. Difference Number Three
In the Rough Draft of the document, Thomas Jefferson raised the issue of Slavery.
He criticized the English King George III and the government for encouraging Slavery through the Atlantic. Even, he called it an abominable crime against humanity.
However, while creating the Final Draft, the Continental Congress gave no space to this controversial issue.
Congress thought, adding the issue in the Final Draft would weaken the Revolutionary War.
4. Difference Number Four
In the Rough Draft, the most popular line of the document was written this way – “Life & Liberty & the pursuit of Happiness”.
But while creating the Final Draft, Congress edited this line to a more melodious form and made it to “Life, Liberty & the pursuit of Happiness”.
Did You Know?
1. Though In The Rough Draft, Thomas Jefferson Criticized The English Authority For Encouraging Slavey In The 13 Colonies; But, Interestingly, Do You Know What, Jefferson Himself Was A Slaveowner During The Course of His Whole Life. He Owned Around 600 Slaves.
2. For Some Short Time, Thomas Jefferson Was A Little Unhappy With The Continental Congress And The Committee of Five For Making Extensive Changes In His Writings On The Rough Draft.
3. Earlier, When The Committee Selected Jefferson As The Primary Author of The Declaration, He Felt A Little Nervous. Even He Thought John Adams Should Do The Heavy Job. However, Later, Adams Calm Him Down With Some Drinks And Persuaded Him For Writing The Document.
