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On July 4, 1776, representatives of the thirteen American colonies formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. This historic document declared that the colonies would no longer be governed by Great Britain and asserted that all people are created equal and are endowed with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The Declaration was the result of growing tensions between the American colonies and the British government. Colonists objected to taxation without representation, restrictive laws, and a lack of self-government. After years of disagreement and conflict, the colonies chose to pursue independence.

Although the Revolutionary War continued for several years after the Declaration was signed, July 4 became the symbolic birthday of the United States.