What historical event is commemorated on Independence Day in the United States?

Independence Day in the United States, celebrated on July 4th, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This significant document announced the American colonies' intention to separate from British rule, declaring their intention to be self-governing. The Declaration articulated the principles of individual liberty and government by consent, which laid the philosophical foundation for the new nation.

The other events listed, such as the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Revolutionary War, or the adoption of the Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution and was introduced later, do not occur on Independence Day. Similarly, the end of the Civil War is a separate milestone in American history that does not directly relate to the independence of the nation from Great Britain. Therefore, the adoption of the Declaration of Independence stands as the focal point of the celebration of Independence Day.