National Archives unveils exhibit marking 250 years since Declaration

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The National Archives is launching a new exhibit highlighting the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, showcasing the documents and ideas that shaped the nation's founding, according to LEX 18 News.

The exhibit features declaration-related documents previously held in the archives, bringing historical materials to public view as the country reflects on the milestone anniversary of the document signed in 1776. Franck Cordes, capital campaign project director for the National Archives Foundation, emphasized that the Declaration's founding principles remain relevant to contemporary discussions about American freedom.

"We're still in that dialog. It's still an ongoing dialog of how we define our freedom," Cordes said in discussing the exhibit's significance.

The Declaration of Independence, which opens with the iconic phrase "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal," established the ideological foundation for the nation during a period of revolutionary change. The document has maintained cultural prominence throughout American history, appearing in presidential speeches and popular media.

Cordes addressed a common misconception about the historic document, referencing its portrayal in the film "National Treasure," which depicted a secret map hidden on the back of the Declaration. "It is written in pencil, 'Declaration of Independence' on the back, but there is no secret map," Cordes explained. "The treasure is on the front."

The 250th anniversary comes as the nation continues to grapple with questions about the fulfillment of the Declaration's ideals. The exhibit aims to educate visitors about the historical context and the individuals whose ideas contributed to the document's creation, providing deeper insight into one of America's most significant founding texts.