The American Revolution is known for the phrase "All men are created equal," which comes from the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson in 1776. This foundational document asserted the belief that all individuals possess inherent rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This revolutionary idea contributed to the philosophical underpinnings of the movement, promoting the notion that governmental authority is derived from the consent of the governed. The Declaration's emphasis on equality became a rallying cry for subsequent civil rights movements and continues to resonate in discussions about social justice and human rights throughout history.