Independence Day is here! Although we celebrate with fireworks, BBQs, and parades, this holiday honors the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This document was created in 1776 by representatives from the original Thirteen Colonies to declare the Colonies’ independence from the British Empire. To celebrate this special day, we’ve found some fun facts about the Declaration of Independence for you to enjoy. Happy 4th of July!
- The Colonies actually declared their independence on July 2nd, not the 4th.
- Not all of the signers signed the Declaration of Independence on the same day. Most signed on August 2nd, and some even signed several days later.
- Eight of the signers were born in Britain– the rest were born in the Colonies.
- There’s something written on the back of the document. As far as anyone can tell, it’s not a secret code leading to hidden treasure. It says, “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.”
- When General George Washington read the declaration in New York City, the British were already occupying New York Harbor. General Washington’s audience was so inspired, it tore down a statue of King George III and melted it into 42,000 musket balls.
- At the time of the signing, about 2.5 million people lived in the Thirteen Colonies.
- After Pearl Harbor, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were hidden in Fort Knox.
- John Hancock, acting as President of the Congress, signed the document first.
- Thomas Jefferson wrote the original draft. However, it was heavily edited by other members of the congress. They took out about ¼ of the original material.