John Dunlap printed the first published copies of the United States Declaration of Independence, known as the Dunlap broadsides.
Dunlap was an Irish-born printer working in Philadelphia. After Congress adopted the Declaration on July 4, 1776, John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress, authorized Dunlap to produce copies for distribution.
The broadsides were large single-sheet printed pages rather than bound books. They were sent to colonial assemblies, military leaders, and other important recipients so the news could spread quickly. One copy was sent to George Washington, whose army was then in the New York area.
Historians identify about two dozen surviving Dunlap broadsides, although the original printing order was roughly 200 copies. They are distinct from the later engrossed parchment copy bearing the delegates' signatures. Dunlap's role explains why the earliest printed versions are named after him.