Free Declaration of Independence Worksheet for Kids

Our Declaration of Independence worksheet is a hands-on way to introduce kids to the history and meaning behind Independence Day.

Designed for young learners, this activity lets them color symbols like the Liberty Bell, George Washington, and the original 13 colonies, helping bring the story of America’s founding to life.

Plus, our free patriotic worksheets add even more opportunities to explore and celebrate the nation’s journey to independence in a fun and memorable way.

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Labeling the original 13 colonies of the United States

Our Declaration of Independence printable is available for free personal or classroom use, giving students a hands-on way to explore early American history.

In the first worksheet, kids can label each of the original 13 colonies on a map, with an option to color them for easy reference.

For guidance, an answer sheet is also provided with the worksheet.

Declaration of Independence printables

This post includes eight additional Declaration of Independence activity worksheets for you to print.

These resources guide students through important milestones, from life in the colonies to key events that sparked the Revolutionary War.

Initially, colonists in the 13 colonies were British citizens, yet faced harsh treatment from both the British parliament and King George III.

This injustice led to the Revolutionary War (1775-83) and inspired the colonies to form a Continental Army, commanded by George Washington. (Consider adding the book Guts and Glory the American Revolution book to deepen these studies.)

For further learning, check out our free George Washington worksheets, designed for young learners, and our printable George Washington activity sheets.

In June 1776, Thomas Jefferson, with help from John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston, began drafting the Declaration of Independence.

Our related Thomas Jefferson worksheets and Benjamin Franklin coloring pages are great additions to this learning unit.

The first to sign the Declaration on July 4, 1776, was John Hancock, followed by 55 other signers. Dive deeper into this moment with our Founding Fathers coloring pages, featuring the main signatories.

The Declaration directly accused King George III of tyranny, stating 27 grievances that outlined the colonists’ frustrations and the need for independence.

The news spread quickly; by August, even colonies as far south as Georgia had received word.

On July 8, 1776, the Liberty Bell rang from Independence Hall, drawing Philadelphians to hear the Declaration’s first public reading by Colonel John Nixon.

Lastly, explore the story behind the bald eagle, adopted as America’s national symbol and added to the National Seal in 1782. This powerful emblem remains an iconic representation of freedom and independence.

Declaration of Independence facts for kids

• The French government supported America in achieving independence. The French navy transported reinforcements, fought off a British fleet, and protected Washington’s forces in Virginia.

• President John Adams and President Thomas Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826, 50 years after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

• The vote for independence was not unanimous among the 13 colonies. Only nine voted in favor of adopting the Declaration of Independence. Pennsylvania and South Carolina voted no, Delaware was undecided and New York abstained.

• The last person to sign the Declaration of Independence was Matthew Thornton, who signed it on November 4, 1776.

• Officially, the Continental Congress declared its freedom from Britain on July 2, 1776, and not the 4th.

• The Declaration of Independence is made up of five distinct parts: the introduction; the preamble; the body, which can be divided into two sections; and a conclusion.

• The Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and the Constitution can all be found in the National Archives Museum in Washington DC.

Other free social studies worksheets

For even more ways to explore American history, check out our collection of free social studies worksheets. Each one gives kids a chance to engage with key moments and concepts in a hands-on way:

• Bill of Rights coloring pages – Introduce children to the core rights and freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights, helping them understand the foundation of American liberties.
• Government worksheets – These worksheets explain the basics of American government, including branches of government and their roles, in a kid-friendly format.
• Constitution coloring pages – Let kids explore the significance of the U.S. Constitution with coloring pages that highlight its creation, purpose, and impact on American history.

These resources offer a broader look at the principles that continue to shape the United States, making history both engaging and memorable for young learners.

Books about the Declaration of Independence for kids

If you’re looking to bring the Declaration of Independence to life for your kids, these books are a fantastic way to dive deeper and make history feel real.

Each one introduces the Declaration in a way that’s engaging and accessible, helping kids see why it still matters today:

• The Journey of the One and Only Declaration of Independence – This one’s a favorite in our house! It takes kids on a journey through history, following the Declaration as it traveled and witnessed so many incredible events.
• What Is the Declaration of Independence? – Part of the popular “Who HQ” series, this book breaks down the big ideas and key figures behind the Declaration, making it super easy for young readers to understand.
• Thomas Jefferson: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Everything – With bright illustrations and a lively story, this book introduces kids to Thomas Jefferson and his role in drafting the Declaration, capturing his world in a way that really draws kids in.

These books make it easy for kids to connect with the ideals of the Declaration and to see how those values continue to shape our lives today.

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These resources make learning about America’s early history fun, memorable, and meaningful. With each activity, kids can start to see how Independence Day celebrates the courage and ideals of those who came before us.

Last Updated on 14 November 2024 by Clare Brown