The Declaration of Independence reference presents the full annotated text of the Declaration, signed on July 4, 1776. Read each section with plain-English explanations and hover over highlighted phrases for context. A searchable database of all 56 signers is included below.
How to Use the Declaration of Independence Reference
The Declaration of Independence reference presents the full text of this founding document in an annotated, navigable format — with context that makes the 18th-century language accessible to modern readers.
Step 1: Navigate by Section
Use the section buttons to jump to any part of the Declaration: the Preamble (why it was written), the Statement of Rights (the famous natural rights passage), the Grievances (27 charges against King George III), Attempts at Resolution, and the formal Declaration itself. Each section includes the original text plus a plain-English explanation.
Step 2: Hover Key Phrases for Annotations
Highlighted phrases in the Declaration text have annotation popups explaining their significance. Hover over "self-evident truths," "Creator," "unalienable Rights," and other key phrases to see historical context and what these words meant in 1776.
Step 3: Explore the Signers Database
The Signers tab contains all 56 delegates who signed the Declaration, organized by state. Search by name or filter by state to find specific signers. Click any signer's row to see their occupation, age at signing, and what happened to them after they risked their lives by signing.
Historical Context
Signing the Declaration was an act of treason against the British Crown. King George III had declared the colonists rebels and enemies of the state. By signing, the 56 delegates pledged "our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor" — and many paid dearly for that pledge. Understanding their courage makes the document far more than an abstract political philosophy.
For a detailed walkthrough, see our guide: Declaration of Independence Explained.
FAQ
Is the Declaration of Independence Reference free?
Yes, completely free — no signup, no account required. Everything runs in your browser.
How many people signed the Declaration of Independence?
56 delegates to the Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. They represented all 13 original colonies. John Hancock, as President of Congress, signed first and most prominently — giving rise to the phrase 'put your John Hancock' to mean signing something.
When was the Declaration of Independence signed?
The Declaration was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which is why July 4th is celebrated as American Independence Day. However, most delegates did not physically sign the engrossed (formal) copy until August 2, 1776. A few signed even later.
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson was the primary author, though the document was revised by the Committee of Five (Jefferson, Franklin, Adams, Sherman, Livingston) and then by the full Congress. Jefferson later said he aimed to be 'an expression of the American mind.' Congress made 86 changes, removing about 480 words including a passage condemning the slave trade.
What are the main sections of the Declaration?
The Declaration has four main sections: (1) The Preamble — explains why the document was written; (2) Statement of Rights — 'We hold these truths to be self-evident'; (3) List of Grievances — 27 charges against King George III; (4) The Declaration itself — formally declaring independence.
What happened to the signers after signing?
Signing the Declaration was an act of treason against the British Crown. Many signers suffered for their courage: their homes were burned, families imprisoned, and property confiscated. Five were captured by the British. Nine died in the Revolutionary War. But none renounced their signature.
Is the Declaration text in the public domain?
Yes. The Declaration of Independence is a public domain document. The text shown here is from the National Archives official transcript.