The year 1776 marked the signing of the Declaration of Independence in the United States. The document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, was adopted on July 4, 1776, and proclaimed the thirteen American colonies' decision to break free from British rule. It articulated fundamental principles of individual rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and asserted the colonies' right to self-governance. The Declaration became a symbol of freedom and democratic ideals, influencing movements for independence and civil rights around the world, and is celebrated annually in the United States as Independence Day.