America250 commemorates the Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
Congress met at the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall, when it debated and approved independence in 1776. Philadelphia was the largest city in the colonies and a major center of printing, trade, and political activity.
The Declaration was drafted mainly by Thomas Jefferson and revised by a committee and then by Congress. The document's adoption took place in Philadelphia, although the physical signing process extended beyond July 4 and involved delegates who were not all present at the same moment.
Another common confusion involves the document's location today. The original engrossed Declaration is displayed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C., while Independence Hall in Philadelphia remains the historic meeting place associated with its adoption. America250 events emphasize Philadelphia because of this direct connection to the founding Congress.