The United States Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776.
The Second Continental Congress approved the final wording in Philadelphia after extensive debate and editing. The document formally explained why the Thirteen Colonies were separating from Great Britain and asserted that they were free and independent states.
July 4 marks adoption, not necessarily the date every delegate signed the famous parchment copy. Congress ordered the engrossed parchment on July 19, and most historians believe the main signing occurred on August 2. This distinction is one of the most common mix-ups surrounding the anniversary.
The Declaration was drafted principally by Thomas Jefferson with help from the Committee of Five. Its adoption became the foundation for the annual Independence Day holiday, making July 4 the central date associated with America's 250th anniversary in 2026.