When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

The Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which is why Independence Day is celebrated on that date. The Declaration was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson with edits from John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and others. It announced the thirteen American colonies' separation from Britain and articulated the philosophy of self-government and individual rights: 'all men are created equal' and endowed with 'unalienable Rights' including 'Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.' The Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, more than a decade later, and serves a different function. The Declaration is a statement of principles and a declaration of independence; the Constitution is the framework of government.