Which document is recognized as declaring independence from British rule?

The Declaration of Independence is the document that specifically declares independence from British rule. Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, it articulates the American colonies' decision to separate from Britain and outlines the philosophical justification for this break, including the assertion that all men have certain unalienable rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The other documents listed serve different purposes. The Constitution establishes the framework of the United States government and was created after independence was achieved. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, focuses on protecting individual freedoms and rights, but it does not pertain to the matter of independence. The Articles of Confederation were the first constitution of the United States, created to govern the country after independence had already been declared, but they are not a declaration of independence themselves. Thus, the Declaration of Independence distinctly holds the role of formally announcing the colonies' separation from British authority.