1776: America’s Declaration of Independence

Introduction

1776 was a pivotal year in world history as America declared its independence from Great Britain with the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th. It marked the birth of the United States of America as a sovereign nation. This momentous act effectively severed America’s ties from the British empire and set the stage for a seven-year-long Revolutionary War. The Declaration of Independence declared America’s right to form a new government and assume its place among the nations of the world. Over two centuries later, the significance of what happened in 1776 is still remembered, celebrated, and revered.

The Growing Tensions and the Boston Tea Party

The year 1776 was the culmination of a long period of tension between the American colonists and the British government. The increasing restrictions on trade, taxation, and civil rights had caused frustration and oppression which eventually reached a boiling point. This was exemplified by the Boston Tea Party in December 1773. In response to the Tea Act, a group of American colonists snuck onto ships in the Boston Harbor and threw the cargo of tea into the harbor in a show of defiance against the British monarchy.

The Formation of the Continental Congress and the Declaration of Independence

In response to the acts of rebellion, Britain decided to suspend self-government in Massachusetts and disband the colonial assemblies. This action galvanized the American colonists from the New England colonies and the Middle colonies to join forces against the monarchy. In response, the thirteen colonies formed the Continental Congress in 1774 as a representative body for the colonies. The congress appointed delegates from each of the colonies to debate and decide on measures to be taken. In June 1776, Richard Henry Lee of Virginia moved to declare independence from Britain. On July 4th, representatives from the thirteen colonies adopted the Lee resolution, unofficially declaring the United States of America to be independent. Two days later on July 6th, the Declaration of Independence was adopted and announcements were made throughout the colonies.

Conclusion

The year 1776 marked the beginning of a great nation as the American colonies declared independence from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence marked a turning point in the war of independence and solidified America’s right to sovereignty and self-rule. The commitments of the founding fathers of the United States to stand for truth, justice, and freedom for all still resonate today, and the ideals upon which the nation was founded continue to be upheld and celebrated.