Independence Hall

Independence Hall

Constructed between 1732 and 1756, Independence Hall is a famous historical landmark in the United States and a symbol of American independence. Although the building contains just three rooms, a handful of tables, and about a dozen chairs, it was the site of the former U.S. Congress and the Supreme Court, where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the U.S. Constitution was adopted. This is where the separation of powers among the legislative, judicial, and executive branches began, and where justice and fairness were established on this procedural foundation. Originally, Independence Hall served as the Pennsylvania State House during the colonial period.

The First and Second Continental Congresses were held here in September 1774 and May 1775 respectively. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress, composed of representatives from the 13 British American colonies, convened here. On July 4, the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Jefferson, was adopted, announcing the separation of the North American colonies from Britain and the establishment of a “free and independent United States.” During the American Revolutionary War, the Congress directed military operations from Independence Hall, and it was here that the Continental Army was formed and the permanent federal Articles of Confederation for the United States of America were drawn up. On May 25, 1787, representatives from 13 states held a Constitutional Convention here under the leadership of Washington, during which the U.S. Constitution was adopted and signed. Today, all furnishings in Independence Hall remain as they were originally. Thirteen conference tables are covered with green velvet cloths, set with paper, stationery boxes, books, and the candlesticks used at the time.

The famous Liberty Bell, originally displayed inside Independence Hall, was moved to a glass-enclosed pavilion on the front lawn of Independence Hall during the bicentennial of American independence. The bell is inscribed with the words “Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof.” In 1948, the U.S. Congress passed a bill to protect Independence Hall and its surrounding historic buildings, establishing the Independence National Historical Park. UNESCO has recognized it as one of the World Heritage Sites.