How did the virginia declaration of rights influence the declaration of independence? it was the first document that was openly critical of the king. it was the document jefferson referred to when writing the declaration of independence. it suggested that the colonies should be independent from britain. it was published as a pamphlet and built support for the declaration. how did the virginia declaration of rights influence the declaration of independence? it was the first document that was openly critical of the king. it was the document jefferson referred to when writing the declaration of independence. it suggested that the colonies should be independent from britain. it was published as a pamphlet and built support for the declaration?