The Declaration of Independence had a profound effect on the United States that would last throughout its lifetime. First, it stated the reasons why the United States began in the first. Second, it is essentially the beginning of the United States. Or rather, it should be said that it resulted in the creation of the United States. What was stated in this document would greatly influence American's early isolation and its eventual imperialism. Ultimately, it dictated how the 13 colonies and future states would attempt to run by the ideology that the people will be ruled by the people and that "all men are created equal with the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."