How many colonies are represented in the independence story commemorated by America250?

The independence story commemorated by America250 involves the Thirteen Colonies. These British colonies along the Atlantic coast declared independence together in 1776 and became the original states of the United States.

The colonies were New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Their economies, religious traditions, political structures, and relationships with Britain differed considerably, but the Continental Congress represented them during the independence crisis.

The number is sometimes confused with the 12 colonies that initially voted for independence on July 4, 1776, because New York’s delegation abstained while awaiting instructions. New York later supported the decision, and all 13 colonies became part of the founding story represented by the Declaration.