A declaration for self-governance heard around the world

Americans will be celebrating the 247th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence on July 4. While this is undoubtedly the biggest birthday party we will participate in this year (please avoid putting Roman candles on the cake), it is important to remember what the 4th of July is all about.

The Continental Congress declared on July 4, 1776 (in part):

"We hold these truths to be self-evident,...