John Dunlap printed the first broadside copies of the Declaration of Independence for Congress in 1776.
Dunlap was a Philadelphia printer who produced the document shortly after Congress adopted its wording on July 4. Working overnight, he printed about 200 broadsides, or large single-sheet printed copies, for distribution to colonial leaders, military commanders, and the public.
These copies are known as the Dunlap broadsides. They were among the earliest printed versions of the Declaration and helped spread the news of independence rapidly across the colonies. General George Washington received a copy and had the document read to his troops in New York City.
Dunlap’s broadsides are distinct from the famous engrossed parchment copy signed by delegates. The broadside was printed for immediate circulation, while the parchment version was prepared later for signatures. John Hancock’s name appears on the broadside as president of Congress.