On July 4, 1776, amidst the American Revolutionary War, the Declaration of Independence was signed, declaring 13 colonies free from British rule and emphasizing fundamental rights like life, liberty, and happiness. This set a global precedent for democracy, influencing nations like France and Russia. During the war, despite initial setbacks, American forces, bolstered by French support and subtle Russian aid, eventually secured independence in 1783. Russia's Empress Catherine the Great opposed ...