What Is the Declaration of Independence?

Did you know?

It announced that the thirteen colonies were splitting from Great Britain

The signers of the declaration risked being put to death as traitors

It continues to inspire people all around the world who yearn for freedom

Step back in time to the birth of America and meet the real-life rebels who made this country free!

On a hot summer day near Philadelphia in 1776, Thomas Jefferson sat at his desk and wrote furiously until early the next morning. He was drafting the Declaration of Independence, a document that would sever this country’s ties with Britain and announce a new nation—The United States of America. Colonists were willing to risk their lives for freedom, and the Declaration of Independence made that official. Discover the true story of one of the most radical and uplifting documents in history and follow the action that fueled the Revolutionary War.

By Michael C. Harris and Who HQ
Illustrated by Jerry Hoare

About OLP Selects

Looking for interesting, age appropriate, history books for your young reader? We've done the legwork for you with OLP Selects, History Books for Kids. Our selection of highly rated and reviewed titles are the perfect supplements to your 4th and 5th grade history studies. Great for expanded study of a favorite historical figure or event these books are also perfect for beginner book reports. Our initial offerings are from the acclaimed "Who Was" book series from WhoHQ at Penguin Books.