Declaration of Independence Legacy: Founding the USA in 1776

Although never used in the document itself, The Declaration of Independence Legacy is the common name of the declaration adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which declared that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as thirteen newly independent states and no longer part of the British Empire. They now formed a new nation—The United States of America.

Historical Forms

After the text was endorsed on July 4, Congress issued the declaration in several forms. The original was printed on parchment (animal hide) but on 4 July 1776 was also published as the printed Dunlap broadside of which twenty-six original copies are known to still exist.

Celebrate Freedom

Next, in this Declaration of Independence legacy, today we celebrate Independence Day, or what’s more commonly known as the Fourth of July, as a federal holiday celebrating the declaration made on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. For most Americans, this day is celebrated with fireworks, parades, picnics, baseball games, and time spent with family. I’m writing this post in the simple hope that you not only remember those who brought you freedom in 1776 but those who continue to protect your freedom each and every day — the men and women of our armed forces.

Have a great day with your family (I’m running a two-mile fun run with my boys and watching fireworks). But if you have kids, consider reading them the declaration every year, and if you don’t have kids, read it yourself. Don’t forget how we all got here.

Or just Celebrate the 4th of July!

PDF Document

Providing easy access to a PDF version of the Declaration of Independence for those interested in delving deeper.

 

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