The United States Declaration of Independence received its final approval on July 4, 1776.
The Second Continental Congress adopted the document in Philadelphia after debating and revising a draft prepared by a Committee of Five. The declaration explained why the Thirteen Colonies considered themselves independent from Great Britain and listed grievances against King George III.
July 4 is celebrated as Independence Day because it is the date printed on the final declaration and the date Congress approved its wording. However, Congress voted for independence through the Lee Resolution on July 2, 1776, which is why John Adams predicted that July 2 would be remembered.
The parchment engrossed copy was signed later. Most delegates signed on August 2, 1776, although additional signatures followed. The document is now displayed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C., alongside the Constitution and Bill of Rights.