The event of writing and signing the Declaration of Independence took place in 1776. It occurred during the American Revolution, when the thirteen American colonies decided to declare their independence from British rule. The Declaration of Independence was written primarily by Thomas Jefferson and proclaimed the colonies' grievances against the British monarchy and their intention to establish a new nation based on the principles of liberty and equality. It was officially adopted on July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress approved the final version of the document, and it continues to serve as one of the most important founding documents of the United States.
