The Spirit of '76 is a sentiment explored by Thomas Jefferson. According to the text published by UNESCO World Heritage Site Monticello, "The principles outlined in the Declaration of Independence promised to lead America –and other nations on the globe – into a new era of freedom. The revolution begun by Americans on July 4, 1776, would never end. It would inspire all peoples living under the burden of oppression and ignorance to open their eyes to the rights of mankind, to overturn the power of tyrants, and to declare the triumph of equality over inequality."