This exhibition explores the foundational principles of the Declaration of Independence and their impact on American history over the last 250 years. It presents treasures drawn from across the library’s collections, including Thomas Jefferson’s draft of the Declaration of Independence with edits from John Adams and Benjamin Franklin; Frederick Douglass’ speech on “The Meaning of July Fourth” and Abraham Lincoln’s handwritten Gettysburg Address. The exhibition will be on view in the Thomas Jefferson Building through July 3, 2027.
