The Declaration of Independence continues to challenge countries, including the US and India, to measure themselves against the ideals they profess. But in a century marked by rising inequality, an authoritarian resurgence, and the emergence of new forms of domination, measuring up will become only more difficult.
NEW DELHI—The Declaration of Independence has long stood as one of the modern world’s most resonant political texts. Its 250th anniversary invites reflection on its impact beyond the United States that emerged from the 13 American colonies that issued it—particularly among anti-colonial movements. Few such movements absorbed the Declaration’s spirit as thoroughly and creatively as India’s.