Exhibit: Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy

When the Declaration of Independence was issued, the idea that “all men are created equal” was revolutionary. With this seminal document, the Founding Fathers unleashed an open-ended driving force that would shape modern history. Around the world, other countries have declared independence taking the US Declaration of 1776 as a model. This exhibition uses primary sources to illustrate how Americans and people across the world have been inspired by the Declaration in their pursuit of equality and self-determination. This exhibit was produced by The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. On view at the library from December, 2025 through December, 2026.