AI Generated Image
Rare copy of Declaration of Independence found by UK National Archives in papers of captured U.S. privateer ship
PBS • • nation
Key Points:
- Michael Scurr, a volunteer at Britain's National Archives, discovered a rare early copy of the American Declaration of Independence while cataloging 18th-century Royal Navy documents.
- The document, known as the Exeter printing, dates from July 16-19, 1776, and is one of only 11 known original copies, and the only one found outside the United States.
- This copy was captured from the American privateer Dalton by the British Navy on Christmas Eve 1776, highlighting the naval aspect of the American Revolution often overlooked in history.
- The document likely served to inspire and justify the fight for independence to the crew, emphasizing the ideals behind the conflict rather than just grievances.
- Historians in the U.S. view the find as a significant artifact connecting directly to the Revolutionary War and a reminder that new historical discoveries are still possible even after 250 years.
