About American Revolution: 250 Years from the Declaration of Independence

Explore the story behind one of the world’s most influential political documents in our free Treasures Gallery.

Drawing on unique items from the Library's collections, this new display traces how the Declaration of Independence came into being. Discover how its assertion that "all men are created equal" has shaped debates, inspired movements and been interpreted by generations over the past 250 years.

Encounter writings from the people who shaped this pivotal moment in history, and explore letters, maps and other documents from the American Revolution. And discover how civil rights leaders including Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King Jr. drew on the Declaration’s ideals in their fight for freedom and equality.

This is a four-case display in our Treasures Gallery.

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Opening Times

Open during regular building opening hours. See our Visit page for details and any upcoming closures.

Accessibility and facilities

There is step-free access to the Philatelic Gallery. Manual wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge, subject to availability. Please ask a member of staff on arrival.

We welcome guide dogs and assistance dogs. Dog bowls are available at the Information Desk, Reading Rooms and all cafés.

A cloakroom and digital lockers are available for visitors who do not wish to take bags and coats into the exhibition. These are free to use and located on the Lower Ground Floor.

You will find accessible toilets on all floors and baby changing facilities on the Lower Ground Floor, Upper Ground Floor and Floor 1.

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