What are two fundamental rights highlighted in the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence, adopted in 1776, explicitly emphasizes the fundamental rights of life and liberty as core principles justifying the colonies' separation from British rule. The document asserts that all individuals are endowed with certain unalienable rights, among which are life and liberty, meaning that every person has the inherent right to live and the freedom to make choices that affect their own lives. These rights are considered foundational and are a key rationale for the American Revolution, as they underpin the belief in individual sovereignty and the moral authority of the state to protect these rights.

While the other options mention important ideals, they do not reflect the specific phrasing used in the Declaration. For instance, the concepts of the pursuit of happiness and equality are also mentioned, but they are secondary to the more primary notions of life and liberty. Safety and security are crucial aspects of governance and social order but are not enumerated in the same foundational sense within the Declaration’s context.