On what date was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, which is a significant date in American history as it marks the formal separation of the thirteen American colonies from British rule. This document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, articulated the colonies' reasons for seeking independence and laid the foundational principles of democracy and individual rights that would shape the United States.

The adoption of the Declaration on this date is celebrated annually in the United States as Independence Day, a federal holiday that honors the values expressed in the document as well as the nation's birth. The date has become synonymous with American patriotism and the quest for freedom, making it an essential fact within the context of U.S. history and civics education.

Other dates listed in the choices do not correspond with the actual adoption of the Declaration, as they reflect neither the historical events leading to the Declaration's adoption nor its formal ratification. Understanding this date is crucial for recognizing its importance in the American narrative and the enduring principles of liberty and justice that it represents.