Declaration of Independence

The painting “Declaration of Independence” is one of the most famous works of American artist John Trumbull. Created between 1817 and 1819, it depicts the scene of presenting the draft of the United States Declaration of Independence for consideration at the Continental Congress session.

After discussions, debates, amendments, and additions, the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. This date (July 4) is a national holiday in the United States, celebrated annually as “Independence Day.”

The central figure of the composition is Thomas Jefferson, handing the document to the President of the Continental Congress, John Hancock. Beside him are other prominent figures of the American Revolution, including Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Roger Sherman. In total, 47 people are depicted in the painting.

Trumbull worked meticulously on the portrait accuracy of the historical figures, personally meeting many of them. The painting was acquired by the U.S. Congress and is currently displayed in the Capitol in Washington, D.C. Its image is widely used in American culture, notably appearing on the reverse side of the $2 bill.

The painting embodies the ideals of freedom and democracy, immortalizing one of the most significant moments in U.S. history.

P.S. Image attribution: John Trumbull, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons