Which of the following are rights listed in the Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, famously articulates fundamental rights that are deemed intrinsic to all individuals. The correct choice, which mentions "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," reflects the core values highlighted in this historic document. The phrase signifies the emphasis the Founding Fathers placed on the importance of individual freedoms and the right to seek personal fulfillment and well-being.

By stating "life" and "liberty," the Declaration underscores the government's role in protecting these essential rights, suggesting that no individual should be deprived of their fundamental existence or freedom. The inclusion of "the pursuit of happiness" serves to express that individuals have the right to pursue their own paths to fulfillment and happiness, an idea that was revolutionary at the time and remains a cornerstone of American values.

The other options contain elements that either paraphrase or diverge from the original text. The pursuit of knowledge, for example, while valuable, is not explicitly mentioned in the Declaration. Similarly, the combinations of "happiness and property" or "justice and equality" also do not align with the phrasing established in the document. Understanding these foundational concepts is crucial for grasping the philosophical underpinnings of American democracy.