THIS DAY @ LAW

Declaration of Independence signed

On August 2, 1776, the Declaration of Independence, originally approved on July 4, was formally signed in Philadelphia, with John Hancock, the President of the Continental Congress, providing the first signature. Learn more about the Declaration of Independence.

Japan eliminates caste system

On August 2, 1869, the Japanese caste system was abolished after centuries of existence as part of the Meiji Restoration's modernization of Japan.