Which document did the Second Continental Congress adopt on July 4, 1776, inspiring America's 250th anniversary?

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 rather than parts of the British Empire. It also explained political principles and listed grievances against King George III and the British government.

Thomas Jefferson drafted the main text as a member of the Committee of Five, with revisions by Congress. The final document became the founding text whose anniversary is commemorated by America250 in 2026.

The Declaration is often confused with the Constitution, but the two documents served different purposes. The Declaration announced separation from Great Britain; the Constitution, written in 1787, established the framework of the federal government. The Articles of Confederation preceded the Constitution as the first national governing charter.