Declaration 250
Explore 250 years of American ideals through books, archives, and resources that shaped the Declaration of Independence and continue to influence us.
What does independence mean—then and now? This collection offers insight into the people, ideas, and legacies of 1776. Whether you’re a student, educator, or curious reader, explore this milestone anniversary with recommended reading and thought-provoking historical perspectives. 250 years later, the questions of freedom, rights, and civic duty still matter. Use these resources to reflect on how the ideals of the founding era continue to inform our shared future.
Related reading and more
![Title: The American Revolution : writings from the War of Independence / John Rhodehamel, [editor].](https://josephinelibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/index-6.jpg)
Declaration 1776
Explore the history, significance, and legacy of the Declaration of Independence through the Gilder Lehrman Institute’s traveling panel exhibition and related materials.
learn moreOregon 250
The America 250 Oregon Commission shares the histories of Oregon’s communities, including Indigenous peoples who lived here long before written records or the arrival of settlers.
learn moreSpotlight on primary sources
- The Declaration of Independence, 1776
- Read the original 1776 Declaration of Independence, the historic document announcing the American colonies’ separation from Britain.
- The Texas Declaration of Independence, 1836
- Read the 1836 Texas Declaration proclaiming independence from Mexico and the birth of the Republic of Texas.
- The Gettysburg Address, 1863
- Read Abraham Lincoln's 1863 Gettysburg Address, delivered at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery, reaffirming the nation's commitment to liberty and equality.
- An Appeal for Suffrage Support, 1871
- Read the 1871 pamphlet encouraging women to seek equal rights, including the vote, and to educate themselves and others on civic responsibilities.
- Voting Restrictions for African Americans, 1944
- Read the 1944 pamphlet revealing how poll taxes, literacy tests, and intimidation were used to block African Americans from voting in the South.
Watch the story of unfold
- British Responses
- Learn how colonists voiced grievances, why Britain reacted strongly to the Declaration, who supported the colonists, and how signers were punished.
- The Declaration and Democracy
- Explore the Declaration’s democratic roots, ties to Thomas Paine’s Common Sense, and loyalists’ post-Revolution fate.
- Drafting the Declaration
- This video covers Jefferson’s draft changes, his views, key edits, slavery stance, and why a grievance was removed by the Continental Congress.
- What you might not know about the Declaration of Independence
- This TedEd video uncovers lesser-known facts about the Declaration's writing and highlights a controversial omission.
- What's Really on the Back of the Declaration of Independence?
- This video answers the common question: "What’s on the back of the Declaration?"