15573. THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE AS AN EXPRESSION OF THE "REVOLUTIONARY SPIRIT." This paper discusses the sources of Jefferson's political theory and how the Declaration represents his views on governmental power and human rights. It is argued that the purpose of the Declaration was to stir up and maintain a revolutionary spirit, and to unite the Colonists in a common cause, the ultimate purpose of which was to create a new nation built on the principles of equality. 10 pages, 27 footnotes, 8 bibliographic sources.