The words "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness" are in what founding document?

Adopted on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence announced the thirteen colonies' break from British rule. Jefferson borrowed the concept of natural rights from Enlightenment philosopher John Locke, who wrote of 'life, liberty, and property.' Jefferson's substitution of 'pursuit of Happiness' for 'property' reflected a broader vision of human flourishing. While the Declaration has no legal force today, it remains the foundational statement of American ideals.