The United States Declaration of Independence was formally adopted on July 4, 1776, the date commemorated by America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
The Second Continental Congress approved the document at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia, now known as Independence Hall. The adoption followed the Lee Resolution, which had declared the colonies independent from Great Britain on July 2.
July 4 is the date printed on the engrossed document and recorded in the congressional journal. The date is sometimes confused with the signing date because popular images often portray all delegates signing together on July 4. Most historians conclude that many delegates signed the engrossed copy on August 2, 1776, with others signing later.
The Declaration explained why the thirteen colonies considered themselves free and independent states. Its anniversary is the historical basis for the United States Semiquincentennial, also called America250.