For America250, what founding document adopted on July 4, 1776 is being commemorated after 250 years?

America250 commemorates the United States Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776.

The document announced that the Thirteen Colonies regarded themselves as free and independent states rather than possessions of Great Britain. The Second Continental Congress adopted it in Philadelphia after Congress had debated independence and approved the Lee Resolution.

Thomas Jefferson wrote the original draft as part of a five-member committee. Congress revised the text, including removing a passage criticizing the transatlantic slave trade. The final declaration presented both a political break with Britain and a philosophical argument about rights and government.

The declaration was adopted on July 4, but most delegates signed the engrossed parchment copy primarily on August 2. America250 therefore connects a 2026 anniversary with a founding document whose adoption began the United States' national story, even though the Revolutionary War continued until 1783.