Independence Day
Published: July 2, 2020
Observed on the 4th of July as the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776
Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 by the Continental Congress declaring that the thirteen American colonies were no longer part of the British Empire but now the United States of America. In preparation for this patriotic observance, take a read of the Declaration of Independence (printed as an appendix to the Pocket Constitution) or learn about the U.S. Flag and Great Seal.
"The Declaration of Independence was the promise; the Constitution was the fulfillment."
Related Resources
- Purchase a printed copy of the Pocket Constitution and Declaration of Independence from GPO's online bookstore.
- Join the National Archives for its first-ever virtual July 4th celebration.
- Learn about the Declaration of Independence on Ben's Guide to the U.S. Government.
- Learn about the history of Independence Day from the National Park Service and the Library of Congress.
About Featured Content Articles – This series of articles aims to highlight content available in govinfo related to various national observances, commemorations, anniversaries and more. See more featured content articles.