When was the Declaration of Independence signed?

The Declaration of Independence was formally adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This date is significant because it marks the official announcement of the colonies' separation from British rule. While the Congress discussed and made revisions to the document in the days leading up to this, it was on July 4 that the Declaration was officially approved and its adoption was celebrated. The signing of the document, which took place later, is often conflated with this date, but July 4 remains the recognized day commemorating the adoption of the Declaration and is a key element in American history that is celebrated as Independence Day.