The phrase "pursue happiness" is rooted in the United States Declaration of Independence, a historical document adopted on July 4, 1776. The specific phrase can be found in the second paragraph, which states:
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
The phrase "pursuit of Happiness" refers to the inherent right of individuals to seek and strive for their own well-being, contentment, and fulfillment. It implies that people have the freedom to make choices and pursue activities and endeavors that they believe will lead to personal happiness and fulfillment, as long as these pursuits do not infringe upon the rights and well-being of others.
While the phrase was originally used in a specific historical context, it has since become a widely recognized and often-cited principle that represents the pursuit of personal happiness and self-fulfillment as a fundamental human right. The concept of "pursuit of happiness" is central to many philosophical and ethical discussions about individual rights, autonomy, and the role of government in safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.