The Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, the city celebrated during America250’s founding-era history.
Congress met in the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall, when it considered the independence resolution and the Declaration. On July 2, 1776, Congress voted for independence; on July 4, it approved the wording of the Declaration.
Philadelphia was a major political and commercial center in British North America. It hosted both Continental Congresses and later the Constitutional Convention of 1787. Independence Hall remains closely associated with the Declaration, although the document was prepared through committee work and debate rather than written in a single moment in the hall.
A frequent confusion is between adoption and signing. Congress adopted the Declaration in July 1776, while the formal signing by many delegates took place later, principally on August 2, 1776.