The document summarizes the history and significance of Independence Day in the United States. It explains that the Continental Congress appointed a committee to draft a declaration of independence from Britain in 1776. Thomas Jefferson wrote the first draft, which was then revised and adopted on July 4th, declaring the 13 colonies independent states. The declaration expressed the colonists' grievances with British rule and their right to govern themselves. Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4th in remembrance of declaring independence from Britain and establishing the United States as a sovereign nation.