The Myth of the Declaration of Independence Written with Crayons

Have you ever come across the ridiculous question, "Why is the Declaration of Independence written with crayons?" While this question may seem to be a harmless inquiry, it is rooted in a profound misunderstanding of history. In this article, we will dive into the truth behind the original writing of the Declaration of Independence, debunk common myths about the document's creation, and share interesting facts about how it came to be.

Origins of the Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence was a pivotal document adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which declared the 13 American colonies that were then at war with Great Britain to be independent states, and thus no longer a part of the British Empire. This document is a cornerstone of American history and a fundamental part of the nation's cultural heritage.

The primary author of this historical document was Thomas Jefferson, who was a prominent Founding Father and the third President of the United States. Jefferson wrote the Declaration in a way that would galvanize the American people against British rule and lay the groundwork for the new nation's identity and values.

The Truth Behind the Myth

One of the most widespread myths regarding the Declaration of Independence relates to its supposed writing with crayons. This misconception likely arises from a couple of factors:

The informal and vivid images often associated with childhood, which crayons are inherently part of. The enduring belief that early American history was characterized by simplicity and the use of tools that might have been more common in a child's playroom than in the Founding Fathers' workspaces.

Unfortunately, these beliefs are far from accurate. When Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, parchment and quill pens were the primary tools used by educated and professional writers of the time. Parchment, a writing material made from animal skin, was durable and commonly used for important documents. The quill pen, made from the feathers of birds, was the standard writing implement for scribes and journalists.

Thomas Jefferson's Writing Method

Thomas Jefferson himself was a sophisticated writer and used a combination of traditional writing materials to draft the Declaration:

Parchment: This was the chosen writing material due to its material durability and the quality required for such an important document. Parchment provided a smooth surface that allowed for clear and legible handwriting. Goose Quill Pen: The quill pen used was made from a goose feather. Quills provided the necessary stiffness and flexibility to write with precision, allowing Jefferson to produce elegant and formal handwriting. Black Ink: The ink used was made from a mixture of water, gall nut (a plant product), and iron salt, which provided a long-lasting and intense black color. This was a common practice in professional writing and ensured that the document would stand the test of time.

Jefferson meticulously crafted the Declaration in his home, the then-known Monticello, where he had an extensive library. The writing process took a significant amount of time, and Jefferson made several revisions before finalizing the document.

Printing and Distribution

After Jefferson completed the draft, the Continental Congress had it printed and distributed. They used standard printing methods of the time, which typically involved copperplate engraving, before moving to a more widely circulated version that was produced by John and Abigail Adams' printer, John Dunlap. Dunlap's printing press produced 200 copies, which were known as the Dunlap Broadside and were distributed to officials and the public, including the troops at the American Revolutionary War.

Conclusion

The myth of the Declaration of Independence being written with crayons is a prime example of the kind of historical misinformation that can arise when people base their understanding on assumptions rather than facts. The reality is that the document was written with the tools and materials of the time, which were sophisticated and fit for an event of such historical significance.

Understanding the true origins of the Declaration of Independence provides us with a deeper appreciation of the complexity and context of this important document, as well as a greater respect for the individuals who brought it into existence and the challenges they faced in shaping a new nation.

By debunking such myths, we not only preserve the historical accuracy of events but also enrich our own understanding of the pivotal moments that shaped the United States.