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Declaration of Independence: Primary Documents in American History

The Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This guide provides access to digital materials at the Library of Congress, links to related external websites, and a print bibliography.

Introduction

On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the colonies’ separation from Great Britain.

Use the navigation menu on the left to access sections of this guide on digital collections, related online resources, external websites, and a bibliography of books providing more information on the Declaration of Independence.

Thomas Jefferson. June 1776, Rough Draft of the Declaration of Independence. 1776-06-. Thomas Jefferson Papers. Library of Congress Manuscript Division.

Printed by John Dunlap. In Congress, July 4, 1776, a declaration by the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress assembled. July 4, 1776. Library of Congress Rare Book and Special Collections Division.

Printed by Mary Katharine Goddard. In Congress, July 4, 1776. The unanimous declaration of the thirteen United States of America. 1777. Library of Congress Rare Book and Special Collections Division.

Last Updated: Oct 10, 2023 8:39 AM
URL: https://guides.loc.gov/declaration-of-independence
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Subjects: American History, Early American History, Government, History, Political Science, Primary Documents in American History