What major event commemorated the 100th anniversary of American independence in 1876?

The Centennial Exposition commemorated the 100th anniversary of American independence in 1876.

Officially called the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures and Products of the Soil and Mine, it was held in Philadelphia from May 10 to November 10, 1876. The exposition celebrated the centennial of the Declaration of Independence while displaying industrial, agricultural, and cultural achievements.

Its grounds covered part of Fairmount Park, and the event attracted millions of visitors. Exhibits included new technologies and products, helping present the United States as an increasingly industrial nation after the Civil War.

The exposition is sometimes confused with later world fairs. The 1893 World's Columbian Exposition took place in Chicago and marked the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's first voyage to the Americas. The 1876 event was Philadelphia's national centennial celebration.