The presentation of this document through time may surprise you.
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Independence National Historical Park
Article 1: The Declaration of Independence -- Draft Copy
Though he “turned to neither book or pamphlet,” Thomas Jefferson relied on his knowledge of philosophy as well as the sentiments of the Virginia Constitution, the Declaration of Rights, and Richard Henry Lee’s resolution when he drafted the Declaration of Independence. Read more
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Independence National Historical Park
Article 2: The Declaration of Independence -- Dunlap Broadside
Intended to spread the word, the Dunlap broadside printings were distributed through the colonies. Read more
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Independence National Historical Park
Article 3: The Declaration of Independence -- Engrossed Version
There is only one original, engrossed version of the Declaration of Independence. It is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Read more
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Independence National Historical Park
Article 4: The Declaration of Independence -- Goddard Broadside
Mary Katharine Goddard first printed the names of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Read more
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Independence National Historical Park
Article 5: The Declaration of Independence -- John Binns
This version of the Declaration of Independence designed by John Binns reflects growing patriotic sentiment in the early 1800s. Read more
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Independence National Historical Park
Article 6: The Declaration of Independence -- Stone Facsimile
While the original engrossed Declaration of Independence is faded, this facsimile on copperplate is much easier to read. William J. Stone engraved the facsimile at the request of Secretary of State John Quincy Adams. Read more