The United States Declaration of Independence received final approval on July 4, 1776.
The Second Continental Congress adopted the document in Philadelphia after debating and revising a draft prepared primarily by Thomas Jefferson. The declaration announced that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as free and independent states rather than subjects of Great Britain.
July 4 marks adoption, not necessarily the day every delegate signed the parchment engrossed copy. Most historians identify August 2, 1776, as the main signing date, although some delegates signed later. The distinction explains why Independence Day celebrates July 4 even though the famous signed document was completed over a longer period.
The date became a national symbol almost immediately. John Adams imagined the anniversary would be remembered with public celebrations, bells, fireworks, and ceremonies. America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 therefore commemorates 250 years since Congress approved the declaration’s final text.