Influence on European Dissent: The ideals expressed in the declaration could inspire and encourage dissent and revolutionary sentiments among common people in Europe, challenging the established social order. European nobles and monarchs feared the spread of these ideas, as they risked undermining their power and authority.
Spread of Revolutionary Fervor: The success of the American Revolution, driven by these ideas, could spark similar uprisings in Europe. Rulers feared the potential contagion effect of revolutionary movements spreading across the continent, threatening their own positions.
Inspiration of Democratic Movements: The declaration provided inspiration and a guiding framework for democratic movements in Europe that sought to challenge the absolute power of monarchs and establish more representative governments.
Disruption of Diplomatic Relations: The recognition of the United States' independence by other nations, based on the principles laid out in the declaration, could potentially destabilize existing diplomatic agreements and alliances in Europe.
Challenge to Colonial Powers: The declaration's emphasis on individual liberty and self-governance posed a threat to European empires, which maintained hierarchical colonial systems based on domination and exploitation.
Therefore, the Declaration of Independence was viewed as a dangerous document by rulers in Europe because of its potential to undermine their authority, spread revolutionary ideas, inspire dissent among their populations, and disrupt the established order.