A document containing philosophical principles and a list of grievances that declared separation from Britain. Adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, it ended a period of intense debate with moderates still hoping to reconcile with Britain. ...
- Class strife - growing during this period (power not interested in best interests of underclass) Act of Toleration -Act in Maryland that gave all Christians freedom of religion - relative religious toleration in lower colonies Calvinism