What historical significance does Independence Day celebrate?

Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th each year, marks the historical significance of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This pivotal moment in American history represented the colonies' formal assertion of independence from British rule. The Declaration, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, outlined the philosophical foundations of democracy, freedom, and the belief in unalienable rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The act of declaring independence not only established a new nation but also significantly impacted global views on governance and human rights.

The other options reflect important events in U.S. history, such as the end of the Civil War, the formation of the Constitution, and the establishment of the Bill of Rights, but they do not pertain to the specific celebration of Independence Day. Each of these events has its own significance and is commemorated at different times or in various ways, but the essence of July 4th is solely linked to the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the nation.