What does the United States of America celebrate during the 4th of July?

The story behind the answer

On July 4, the United States commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when the Continental Congress in Philadelphia formally announced the thirteen colonies’ break from Great Britain. Drafted chiefly by Thomas Jefferson and famously signed by John Hancock, the Declaration set out Enlightenment ideals of natural rights and government by consent—principles central to American identity.

The other options occurred on different dates: Washington crossed the Delaware on Dec. 25–26, 1776; the Constitution was ratified in 1788; Gettysburg was fought July 1–3, 1863. Memory tip: think “Fourth, Founding, Freedom”—the F’s link July 4 to the Founding Fathers’ declaration of freedom.