9 Fun Facts About the Declaration of Independence – June 30, 2020
On July 4th, we celebrate the 244th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In its honor, here are 9 fun facts about one of the nation’s most treasured documents.
1.) Independence was declared on July 2, the Declaration was adopted on July 4, and it was actually signed on August 2.
2.) John Hancock was the first to sign.
3.) Thomas Jefferson is considered the author of the Declaration. A five-person committee made up of Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Robert Livingston, and Roger Sherman contributed ideas.
4.) The Declaration and Constitution were taken to Fort Knox shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
5.) There is a message on the back of the Declaration that reads, “Original Declaration of Independence dated July 4, 1776.” Experts believe it was added while in storage.
6.) The first public reading of the Declaration took place on July 8, 1776 in Philadelphia.
7.) When George Washington read the Declaration in New York City on July 9, 1776, the words were so inspiring the people started a riot.
8.) John Dunlap made about 200 copies, which were distributed throughout the colonies. There are only 26 known surviving “Dunlap Broadsides.”
9.) In 1989, someone discovered a previously unknown Dunlap Broadside hidden in a picture frame bought for $4 at a flea market. It was sold in 2000 for over $8 million.
Sources: ConstitutionCenter.org, ConstitutionFacts.com, Military.com, CNN
In today’s uncertain climate, let’s remember that what unites us is far greater than what divides us. I hope you enjoyed these facts as much as I enjoyed researching and sharing them. Please have safe and happy holiday week!
Created 2020-06-30 18:08:25