Independence Hall

　　Independence Hall was constructed between 1732 and 1756 and is a renowned historical monument in the U.S., serving as a symbol of American independence. Though the building consists of no more than three rooms, a few tables, and a dozen or so chairs, it was the site of the former U.S. Congress and the Supreme Court, and the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the U.S. Constitution was ratified. It marks the beginning of the separation of powers into legislative, judicial, and executive branches, establishing justice and fairness on this procedural foundation. The building originally 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, declaring 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, created the Continental Army, and formulated the Articles of Confederation, the first governing document of the United States. On May 25, 1787, delegates 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 the furnishings in Independence Hall remain as they were originally. The 13 conference tables are covered with green velvet cloths and are set with papers, writing boxes, books, and the candlesticks used at the time.

　　The famous Liberty Bell, once displayed inside Independence Hall, was moved to a glass pavilion on the front lawn of Independence Hall during the bicentennial celebration 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 other historically significant buildings in the area, establishing the Independence National Historical Park. UNESCO has listed it as one of the World Heritage Sites.