Question

Was the Declaration of Independence intended to be a formal declaration of war? Why or why not?

a. Yes. Though fighting preceded the writing, it was intended to be a formal declaration of war.
b. No. The war started a year before the Declaration of Independence was written.
c. Yes. The Declaration of Independence formally united the militias of the individual colonies.
d. No. There was no need to declare war, as this power had yet to be established.

Answer 1

No, it was not, the war was only the means to achieve this independence. Also, it has started already a year before - so I think that the best answer is b.

Answer 2

The correct answer is B. The Declaration of Independence wasn't intended to be a formal declaration of war, as the war started a year before the Declaration of Independence was written.

The document justified the independence of the United States by listing the colonial claims against King George III and affirming certain natural and legal rights, including the right to revolution. It was more an exposition of motives and beliefs than a formal declaration of war.