America 250: Our crowning chapter | Great American Story | FOX 10 Phoenix

Hosts Ron Hoon and Jon Noetzel conclude their 10-week/250 years/1 Great American Story countdown by discussing the number one historical milestone: the signing of the Declaration of Independence. They explore how the real story is far more complicated than just celebrating the 4th of July, noting that John Adams believed July 2nd would be remembered as Independence Day since that was the day the Continental Congress actually voted to declare it. The hosts highlight how the revolution had already been underway for a couple of years before the document was signed, referencing pre-existing conflicts like Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, and the burning of Norfolk, Virginia. The conversation dives into the historical details leading up to 1776, tracing how British actions and taxation without representation pushed reluctant colonists toward seeking full dissociation from England. They highlight the massive impact of Thomas Paine's booklet Common Sense, which sold 500,000 copies and caused a massive sea change in public opinion before public polling existed. The hosts also discuss the insights of author Eric Metaxas, who argues that John Adams was the true architect and cornerstone of independence, while Thomas Jefferson used his literary skills to pen the formal document. The segment wraps up with a breakdown of the timeline, explaining that the text was approved on July 4th but wasn't formally signed by most delegates until August 2nd, 1776. They reveal that New York was the final colony holdout, not coming on board until July 9th. Finally, they share the incredible story of Stephen Pleasonton, a clerk who saved the original document from being destroyed just 24 hours before the British burned down Washington buildings during the War of 1812. Subscribe to FOX 10 Phoenix!    / @fox10phoenix   #DeclarationOfIndependence #AmericanHistory #July4th  #fox10phoenix #history #greatamericanstory FOX 10 Phoenix delivers breaking news, live events, politics, entertainment, business news and local stories from Phoenix, Arizona and across the nation. Watch more FOX 10 Phoenix on YouTube:    • Great American Story      • Arizona headlines      • National headlines      • Top Videos