The historical event associated with the year 1776 is the Declaration of Independence, which marked the formal assertion of the American colonies' intention to separate from British rule. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the document drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson. The Declaration articulated the colonies' grievances against King George III and emphasized the principles of individual rights, liberty, and government by consent of the governed. This pivotal moment in history laid the foundation for the United States' emergence as an independent nation and inspired various movements for independence and democracy worldwide.