What was the main outcome of the Declaration of Independence?

The main outcome of the Declaration of Independence was the formal assertion that the 13 colonies were independent from Great Britain. Adopted on July 4, 1776, the document articulated the colonies' reasons for seeking independence and outlined their grievances against King George III and British rule. By declaring independence, the colonies positioned themselves as sovereign entities, no longer subject to British authority. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new nation and paved the way for the revolutionary war and subsequent formation of the United States.

In this context, the other options do not capture the primary purpose of the Declaration. Establishing a monarchy contradicts the core principles of independence and self-governance that the Declaration championed. A declaration of war against France is historically inaccurate, as the Declaration mainly concerned the relationship with Britain. Lastly, while the Declaration ultimately led to the need for a constitution, it was not itself the formation of one; rather, that process occurred later as the new nation sought to create a framework for governance.