Writing the Declaration of Independence, 1776 | Virginia Museum of History & Culture Writing the Declaration of Independence, 1776
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Writing the Declaration of Independence, 1776

The Writing of the Declaration of IndependenceWriting the Declaration of Independence, 1776, by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris. Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin were named to a committee to prepare a declaration of independence. Jefferson (standing) did the actual writing because he was known as a good writer. Congress deleted Jefferson's most extravagant rhetoric and accusations.

You may view the original document online at the National Archives.

(VHS accession number: 1996.49.15)

Image rights owned by the Virginia Historical Society. Rights and reproductions

VMHC will re-open July 1 with early access for members June 27-30. Click here for details. 

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