When did the USA become an independent nation?

The United States of America became an independent nation on July 4, 1776. This date marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, a pivotal moment in American history when the thirteen colonies declared their independence from British rule. The Declaration was primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson and asserted the colonies' intention to be free and self-governing.

The other dates mentioned—June 14, 1777, is significant for the adoption of the American flag, symbolizing the new nation but not its independence; September 17, 1787, refers to the signing of the U.S. Constitution, which established the framework for the federal government but came after independence was declared; and April 15, 1775, is near the beginning of armed conflict in the Revolutionary War, but does not denote the formal declaration of independence.

Understanding the context of July 4, 1776, as the birthday of the United States helps grasp the significance of this event in shaping the nation's identity and historical timeline.