Who were the Founding Fathers?

The Founding Fathers were a group of influential leaders who played pivotal roles in the establishment of the United States during the late 18th century. They are recognized for their contributions in drafting key documents that laid the foundations of American governance, such as the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Their decisions and philosophies shaped the nation's principles of democracy, individual rights, and the rule of law. Notable figures among them include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and James Madison, each contributing to the revolutionary ideals that sought independence from British rule and established a new framework for governance. This understanding of the Founding Fathers highlights their crucial role in forming a distinct national identity and governmental structure that continues to influence the United States today.