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The Declaration of Independence

A Grade 8 social studies worksheet covering key concepts and historical figures related to the Declaration of Independence.

Grade 8 Social studies HistoryU.S. HistoryDeclaration of Independence
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Includes

Multiple ChoiceFill in the BlanksTrue / FalseShort AnswerMatching

Standards

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.1CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.2CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.6

Topics

Declaration of IndependenceU.S. HistoryAmerican RevolutionFounding Fathers
7 sections · Free to use · Printable
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The Declaration of Independence

Name:

Date:

Score:

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use complete sentences for short answer questions.

1. Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?

a

George Washington

b

Thomas Jefferson

c

Benjamin Franklin

d

John Adams

2. When was the Declaration of Independence officially adopted by the Continental Congress?

a

July 4, 1776

b

September 17, 1787

c

December 7, 1787

d

July 2, 1776

3. The Declaration of Independence declared the colonies' independence from  .

4. The Declaration states that all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of  .

5. The Declaration of Independence was signed by all 50 states.

T

True

F

False

6. The Declaration of Independence served as a declaration of war against Great Britain.

T

True

F

False

7. Briefly explain the purpose of the Declaration of Independence.

8. Name two grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence against King George III.

Match each term with its correct definition.

9. Unalienable Rights

 

a. The governing body of the American colonies

10. Preamble

 

b. Rights that cannot be taken away

11. Continental Congress

 

c. The introduction to a document, stating its purpose