Publisher's Synopsis
In Independence Hall, Philadelphia, in 1776, the Second Continental Congress assembled, debated and approved the Declaration of Independence. This divided the American colonies from British rule and marked the beginning of the United States of America. Philadelphia also served as the location for the country's first capital and hosted the signing of the U.S. Constitution and other historic documents. Since that time Philadelphia has flourished to become the country's sixth largest city and fourth largest urban area. A vast amount of this country's early history and buildings have been preserved here. Independence National Park encompasses twenty blocks, and includes Independence Hall, Liberty Bell Center, Benjamin Franklin's home and print shop, Betsy Ross's home, the first and second banks of the U.S., and much more. Most of these attractions offer free admission as part of the U.S. National Park System. Philadelphia boasts the largest collection of public art in the nation, and is home for museums housing some of the world's greatest art. Philadelphia is running over with exciting and interesting places to see and things to do.
