2008 civics test · Question 63 · Colonial Period and Independence

When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

Official answer

  • July 4, 1776

What this means

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776.

Did you know? The Continental Congress approved the resolution for independence on July 2, 1776. It adopted the Declaration two days later, on July 4, which became the date celebrated as Independence Day.

This one date is worth memorizing exactly, because it answers more than one question on the test. Independence Day is the holiday marking this same event.

Answer: July 4, 1776.

Why this is on the test

This date is also the answer to the Independence Day question, so learning it once covers two questions on the test.

How this question is asked

On the 2008 civics test, the officer asks up to 10 of the 100 questions out loud and you pass by answering 6 correctly. You answer in your own words. There is no multiple choice and nothing to write down for the civics portion.

This question also appears on the 2025 civics test , as question 79.

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