Thomas Jefferson's unique skill, knowledge, and linguistic talent were instrumental in crafting the Declaration of Independence into an enduring text. He served as America's conscience, adept at using sensational imagery.

<p>Of the delegates who assembled in Philadelphia in 1776 for the Second Continental Congress, only Thomas Jefferson possessed the skill, knowledge, and linguistic gifts to make the Declaration of Independence an immortal text. He was the self-appointed conscience of America, and sensational imagery was his stock-in-trade.</p>