We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America . . . solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. What is the purpose of this paragraph?

to warn Great Britain that the United States will attack it
to explain how the problems between the two countries can be resolved
to make clear that American colonists are no longer under British rule
to begin negotiations to establish alliances and commerce with Britain