The Declaration of Independence's surprising history
Go Deeper.
Create an account or log in to save stories.
Like this?
Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.
A replica of an original copy of the Declaration of Independence, which will be on display in St. Paul May 6-18.
MPR photo/Tom Weber
It's hard to imagine now, but at one time the Declaration of Independence was considered obsolete. That was until Abraham Lincoln kept referring to it in the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates, and even more famously in the Gettysburg Address.
Two scholars of the Declaration of Independence throughout history talk about how understanding of the document evolved over time.
Gallery
Turn Up Your Support
MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all.
