By the spring of 1776, the question of independence was on the minds of those living in the thirteen American colonies. The Patriots were winning the hearts and minds of many; however, for various reasons, not every colonist was in favor of breaking ties with Great Britain.
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The spring and summer of 2026, when the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, is a fitting moment to commit to refamiliarizing ourselves as a nation with the complexities surrounding this historical document and the process through which it was created, as well as the ideals it espouses the American people—and its government—to live up to. The Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area’s award-winning program, Declaring Independence: Then & Now provides the opportunity to do so.
Early American history is rich with stories that have become legendary. However, a closer look at some beloved beliefs reveals a slightly different tale. Let’s dive into the myths surrounding Benjamin Franklin’s turkey, Betsy Ross, Paul Revere, and the true date of Independence Day.
