Final answer:
Some values stated in the Declaration of Independence include "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." These principles underscore the unalienable rights of individuals, emphasizing the government's obligation to protect these inherent rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Declaration of Independence, crafted by Thomas Jefferson, enshrines fundamental values essential to a free society. The phrase "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" encapsulates three core principles.
First, "life" signifies the inherent right to existence and protection from unjust harm. Second, "liberty" denotes the freedom to act, think, and pursue personal aspirations without undue interference. Third, the "pursuit of happiness" acknowledges the pursuit of personal fulfillment and well-being, encompassing diverse endeavors that contribute to an individual's contentment.
These values were pivotal in asserting the rights of individuals against oppressive governance and are foundational to the American ethos. Their inclusion in the Declaration emphasized that governments exist to safeguard these inherent rights, and any system failing to uphold these principles can be justly challenged. These principles have transcended their historical context, resonating globally as fundamental human rights.