"we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."—declaration of independence

this quote reflects the political principle of

Equal rights. That all people who are citizens are to get equal and we as American people think and hold to a high regard that we should/shall get equal rights in every respect. Back then a "citizen" Was someone who owned land and I think if I remember correctly a job/education and or family. For in these days it means any one who has American citizenship no matter what gender, color, or race will have equal rights to every other American citizen.