What phrase begins the Liberty Bell’s inscription, a symbol featured in America250 history?

The phrase “Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land” begins the Liberty Bell’s inscription, a symbol featured in America250 history.

The inscription comes from Leviticus 25:10 and continues with “unto all the Inhabitants Thereof.” The Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly commissioned the bell in 1751, and it was cast in London in 1752 before being recast in Philadelphia after cracking.

The bell became widely known as the Liberty Bell in the nineteenth century, especially through its adoption by abolitionist groups. Its connection with the Declaration is powerful, but the popular story that it rang immediately after Congress adopted the document on July 4, 1776 is not supported by contemporary evidence.

Historians consider it likely that the bell was among Philadelphia’s bells rung during the public reading on July 8. The inscription, rather than a documented July 4 ringing, is the clearest link between the bell’s words and the ideals celebrated by America250.