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This Day in American History

December 10

1 historic event on this date

Historical1948

Universal Declaration of Human Rights Adopted

The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with Eleanor Roosevelt chairing the drafting committee. The declaration proclaimed fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

Why It Matters

American leadership in drafting this declaration extended the principles of the Bill of Rights to a global audience and established an international standard for human rights.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles