The biblical reference inscribed on the Liberty Bell, a symbol often featured in America250 programs, is Leviticus 25:10.
The inscription comes from the King James Bible: “Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof.” It refers to the biblical Jubilee year, when liberty was proclaimed throughout the land.
The bell was cast in London in 1752 for the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall. It cracked during an early test and was recast in Philadelphia. The famous wide crack developed later, and the bell was last rung publicly in 1846.
The Liberty Bell’s association with American independence grew especially during the 19th century. Although popular tradition links it directly to the 1776 announcement, historians have found no contemporary evidence that it was rung on July 4 of that year.