Praxis Social Studies: Content Knowledge (5081)

The correct choice is the document that declared the independence of the United States from Great Britain, which is the Declaration of Independence. This pivotal document, adopted on July 4, 1776, articulated the reasons for the American colonies' decision to separate from British rule. It presented a philosophical justification for independence, emphasizing concepts such as individual rights and government by consent of the governed. The Declaration outlines grievances against King George III, illustrating the injustices faced by the colonies, and declares that they are entitled to assume their rightful place among the nations of the world as free and independent states.

In contrast, the Constitution serves as the foundational legal framework for the governance of the United States, establishing the structure of the federal government and the rights of citizens. The Federalist Papers are a series of essays promoting the ratification of the Constitution, focusing on the merits of a strong federal government rather than independence from Britain. The Bill of Rights, which is comprised of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, specifically addresses the rights and liberties of individuals, but it was created after independence was declared to safeguard those rights under the new Constitution. Thus, the Declaration of Independence is uniquely significant as it marks the formal assertion of sovereignty from British control.