Independence Day and the Declaration of Independence

What date do Americans celebrate as Independence Day?

• August 2nd

• July 4th

• June 7th

• July 2nd

Who was the oldest signer of the Declaration of Independence?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

Which two young signers were from South Carolina?

• John Adams and Samuel Adams

• Edward Rutledge and Thomas Lynch Jr.

• Benjamin Franklin and John Hancock

• Thomas Jefferson and Roger Sherman

What was the purpose of the Virginia resolution?

• To declare war on Britain

• To seek foreign alliances and declare independence

• To form a new government

• To negotiate peace with Britain

Who was part of the committee to draft the Declaration of Independence?

• Thomas Jefferson

• Richard Henry Lee

• George Washington

• John Dickinson

Which delegate argued against independence for two hours?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benjamin Franklin

• John Dickinson

How many colonies initially voted for independence on July 2nd?

• 10

• 13

• 12

• 11

What did John Adams believe declaring independence would achieve?

• It would lead to immediate peace

• It would unite and boost American morale

• It would cause division among the colonies

• It would end the war quickly

What did the signers of the Declaration realize about their words?

• They would be ignored by Britain

• They would lead to peace negotiations

• They would take time to become reality

• They would have immediate effect

What was needed in addition to the Declaration to secure independence?

• Peace talks with Britain

• Battlefield victories and foreign support

• More signers

• A new government