The passing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 marked the beginning of the United States of America, but the ideas that influenced the development of American government have roots extending to the dawn of civilization. As long as humans have lived in community, the desire to keep order has spawned many experiments in finding an effective system of government. Examination of the development of American government reveals the influence of several civilizations, including ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, British and other European civilizations, and Native American civilizations—particularly the Iroquois Nation. The political theory and government system used by each of these civilizations impacted the thoughts and actions of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America, resulting in the government system seen in America today.