The Declaration was just the beginning.
The revolutionary ideas of 1776 and the national framework established in 1787 laid the foundation for America’s story—chapters that continue to shape our nation today. This toolkit gives you everything you need to explore the founding documents and the enduring vision they set in motion.
Dive into the Declaration
Experience the Declaration of Independence like never before with full annotated text, audio narration, original document images, and videos that bring the ideals of 1776 to life.
Explore the Interactive Declaration
The Constitution in Conversation
Discover how experts agree and disagree about the Constitution’s history and meaning and explore perspectives on the constitutional debates that continue to shape American life.
Explore the Interactive ConstitutionUncover the Stories Behind the Signatures
See all BiographiesMeet the 89 individuals who signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution through historian Carol Berkin's vivid biographies in written and video form. From familiar names to forgotten heroes, get to know the people who risked everything for our new nation.
Ben Franklin
“History—or historical myth—has recorded Franklin's prophetic words to a woman who asked him what kind of government the Constitutional Convention was proposing. “A republic, madam,” he replied, adding “if you can keep it.”
Read the Biography
Thomas Jefferson
“At the age of 33, Jefferson was one of the youngest delegates to the Second Continental Congress. Together with his newfound friend, John Adams, he served on a committee of five chosen to write a Declaration of Independence. Although the other members of the committee thought Adams should draft the Declaration, Adams persuaded them that Jefferson was the better choice.”
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Alexander Hamilton
“‘I charge you to protect his fame….that fame may be a rich treasure to you….Let it be the test by which to examine those who solicit your favour…view their conduct and on a doubtful occasion, ask, Would Hamilton have done this thing?’”—Gouverneur Morris's Eulogy at Alexander Hamilton's funeral
Read the Biography
The Declaration, the Constitution, and the Idea of Equality
Danielle Allen discusses the meaning of the principle of equality in the Declaration and its evolution over time through the Constitution and the law.
By Danielle Allen
Bryant Conant University Professor at Harvard University
The Declaration’s Grievances Against the King
Rosemarie Zagarri explains that while the list of grievances is today an overlooked part of the Declaration of Independence, the list was arguably the most critical section of the document in 1776.
By Rosemarie Zagarri
Distinguished University Professor, George Mason University
The Declaration’s Promises
Eric Slauter notes that the Declaration’s stirring words are a testament to the power of ideas and to the efforts of ordinary Americans to press them into service for change.
By Eric Slauter
Deputy Dean of Arts and Humanities and the College, University of Chicago.
Discover the Ideas That Shaped America—With Leading Scholars
What did liberty and equality mean in 1776 and what do they ask of us today? Renowned historians and scholars provide their examinations of the founding principles that defined our democracy and still influence how we live it, through written word and short videos.
Browse Scholar Essays & VideosKeep Exploring America’s Story
From podcasts and films to exhibits and town halls, dive deeper into the people, ideas, and debates that continue to shape America—250 years and counting.
Why Read the Founding Documents?
Supreme Court Justices Neil M. Gorsuch and Justice Stephen G. Breyer (Ret.) talk about how the founding documents reflect the words we try to live by today.
Pursuit: The Founders’ Guide to Happiness
Hosted by National Constitution Center CEO Emeritus Jeffrey Rosen, this new podcast explores civic virtue through the lens of some of America’s most influential founders and offers a fresh perspective on how their wisdom continues to provide a guide to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
The 2025 Liberty Medal
The 37th annual Liberty Medal was awarded to the beloved Broadway hit, Hamilton, and the acclaimed historian and biographer, Ron Chernow, whose book inspired the musical. The Liberty Medal ceremony took place on October 17, 2025, at the National Constitution Center.
New Galleries
See an original copy of the Constitution up close as the National Constitution Center opens two new galleries in 2026—one on America’s founding opening in February and another on the separation of powers opening in May.
A More Perfect Union: Inspiring Civic and Civil Conversations Across America
This special for PBS taped at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia and produced by WETA Washington, D.C., is a conversation about America’s founding and how the ideas and values articulated 250 years ago remain relevant to our democracy today.
Resources for the Next Generation
Find lesson plans and activities to explore the Declaration, the Constitution, and founding principles in the classroom.
Bring History Home
Activities to engage the whole family in learning about the founding documents.
Pursuing Happiness: The Franklin Challenge
Test out Benjamin Franklin's daily civic habits.
Founders Table Talk
Big questions and conversations about the Revolution.
Family Lit Circles: Reading Together for A250
Read together across generations with prompts and discussion.
Civic Calendar
Monthly themes, activities, and guides to celebrate America 250.