Which document's adoption does the America250 celebration commemorate?

America250 commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress.

Congress approved the document on July 4, 1776, announcing that the Thirteen Colonies regarded themselves as free and independent states rather than colonies subject to Great Britain. The Declaration gave a public explanation for the separation and listed grievances against King George III.

The document is often associated with its famous opening appeal to equality and natural rights, but it also contains a political case for independence. It was not a constitution or a complete plan of government; those tasks came later through the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution.

The Declaration's parchment engrossed copy was signed primarily on August 2, 1776, although July 4 remains the date of adoption and the date celebrated as Independence Day.