What year was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

The Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776, a pivotal moment in American history. This document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, proclaimed the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule, marking the birth of the United States as an independent nation. The Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration on July 4, 1776, which is now celebrated every year as Independence Day in the United States. The significance of this declaration lies not only in its assertion of freedom but also in its expression of Enlightenment ideals such as individual rights and the principle of government by consent.