Happy Independence Day! This Fourth of July, many Americans are reflecting on what it means to be living in a free country, and how their rights and freedoms came to be – it’s not about the BBQ. Well, that’s not entirely true – a nice American cheeseburger pairs nicely with the celebrations. For those who wish to honor the day by visiting the original document in person, they may be wondering where to find it.
Where is the Declaration of Independence?
The Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. So, what did it mean? Well, this important document declared the separation of 13 North American British colonies from Great Britain. It contains an explanation of why Congress had decided that “these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be Free and Independent States.” This vote took place on July 2 and was voted in unanimously by the 12 colonies, although New York abstained from voting.
So, the day on which the final separation was officially voted was July 2. Why don’t we celebrate that date instead of the 4th?
Well, the Fourth of July is the day on which the Declaration of Independence was actually adopted, so that’s why Americans celebrate it as a great national holiday: as the Fourth of July, or Independence Day.
Now, for those wishing to view the Declaration of Independence with their own eyes, they can visit it at the National Archives museum, which is located at 701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408, USA.
Once at the museum, visitors can make their way to the upper level, where they will find the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom. This is the permanent home of the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, and Bill of Rights.
