What document did the Second Continental Congress adopt on July 4, 1776, the event marked by America250?

The Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The document announced that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as independent states and explained the political reasons for separating from Great Britain.

Thomas Jefferson drafted the initial text, working with a small committee that included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. Congress revised the draft before adopting it, removing or changing several passages during debate.

The date is central to America250 because the 2026 commemoration marks 250 years since the Declaration’s adoption. The parchment document was not signed by most delegates on July 4; the principal signing ceremony took place on August 2, 1776.

The Declaration is also distinct from the Constitution and the Articles of Confederation. The Declaration announced independence, the Articles provided the first national framework, and the Constitution later created the current federal system.