The Declaration of Independence is probably one of the most important documents in American history. The declaration was a complete break of the thirteen colonies from the British authority. The 56 signers risked their lives in the effort to free themselves from what they viewed as an autocratic rule with no place for representation. They viewed it as a declaration of the rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And, they also affirmed that any government would be subject to the consent of the governed.