Who inspired Jefferson’s words in the Declaration of Independence? Shakespeare.

A Jefferson interpreter suggests that Shakespeare's rhythmic prose influenced Thomas Jefferson's Declaration of Independence, highlighting how both works were crafted for oral delivery in an era of widespread illiteracy. This revelation underscores the enduring impact of Shakespeare's literary style and its unexpected influence on foundational American documents, shedding new light on the intersection of theater and political rhetoric. It’s a fascinating insight into how cultural influences can shape significant historical texts.