The Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, voted on July 19 to officially inscribe it, and signed it on August 2. Its purpose was to announce American independence to the world and to explain the reasons for the American action. This print portrays the members of the Continental Congress, having signed the Declaration, leaving Independence Hall. John Hancock, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson are among those depicted standing on the steps, facing a crowd of citizens.