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The story of the Declaration of Independence

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Declaration of Independence
A replica of an original copy of the Declaration of Independence.
MPR photo/Tom Weber

The idea that all Americans have a right to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" is perhaps the most significant legacy of the Declaration of Independence. During the 2009 Aspen Ideas Festival, David Rubenstein told the story of the Declaration of Independence -- how it was written and how the ideas in it are central to American life.

Rubenstein was an official in the Carter administration and is also the owner of one of the 17 surviving copies of the Magna Carta.

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Declaration of Independence
A replica of an original copy of the Declaration of Independence.
MPR photo/Tom Weber