The United States Declaration of Independence was adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776.
The Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia while the thirteen colonies were at war with Great Britain. Congress approved the declaration's final text after several days of debate and editing. The document explained why the colonies considered themselves independent states and listed grievances against King George III.
The date of adoption is often confused with other important dates. Congress approved the Lee Resolution declaring independence on July 2, while the declaration itself was formally adopted on July 4. Most delegates signed the engrossed parchment later, primarily on August 2. The document was printed as a broadside soon afterward and circulated widely.
July 4 became the date associated with American Independence Day. The declaration's opening principles, including claims about equality and natural rights, later influenced political movements in the United States and abroad.