USCIS 128:79. When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

OpenAI. (2026).   When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?   [AI-generated infographic] based on "Declaration of Independence" by John Trumbull.  Edited by Jennifer Gagliardi

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. On this day, the American colonies officially agreed to become free from Great Britain.

Before this, the colonies were already fighting in the Revolutionary War. However, they had not yet formally declared independence. Leaders from the colonies met in the Continental Congress to discuss what to do. The president, or leader, of the Continental Congress at that time was John Hancock, assisted by secretary, Charles Thomson.

A small group of men helped write the Declaration of Independence. The main writer was Thomas Jefferson. He worked with John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. Together, they created a document that explained why the colonies wanted to be free.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the final document. This was an important moment because it showed that the colonies were united in their decision.

Today, Americans celebrate Independence Day every year on July 4. This date marks the beginning of the United States as a new, independent nation.