What is the primary role of government as outlined in the Declaration of Independence?

The primary role of government, as outlined in the Declaration of Independence, is to protect the rights of the people. This foundational principle stems from the belief that individuals possess certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration argues that governments are established to secure these rights, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. This means that when a government fails to protect those rights, the people have the authority to alter or abolish it. This idea was revolutionary at the time and emphasized the concept of government as a protector of individual freedoms rather than a mere authority imposing laws or collecting taxes. The focus on individual rights and the role of government in safeguarding them is a key principle that has influenced American democratic ideals throughout history.