The Declaration of Independence’s engrossed parchment copy was mainly signed on August 2, 1776. This signing date is distinct from July 4, when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration’s text and anniversary celebrations are based.
John Hancock and Charles Thomson had signed an earlier congressional version on July 4, while the formal parchment was prepared afterward. Most delegates added their names on August 2, with some signing later.
The distinction matters because popular imagery often treats adoption, public announcement, and signing as one event. Historians separate these stages when explaining the document commemorated by America’s 250th anniversary.