June 11, 1776 — the Committee of Five is appointed
Congress named a committee to draft the Declaration of Independence: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, and Thomas Jefferson. The others, recognizing his gift with words, handed the writing to the 33-year-old Jefferson. In a rented room over the next two weeks, he drafted the document that would define a nation.
Common Questions About June 11
What happened on June 11 in American history?
In 1776: the Committee of Five is appointed. Congress named a committee to draft the Declaration of Independence: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, and Thomas Jefferson.
Why is June 11 significant?
Congress named a committee to draft the Declaration of Independence: John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, and Thomas Jefferson. The others, recognizing his gift with words, handed the writing to the 33-year-old Jefferson. In a rented room over the next two weeks, he drafted the document that would define a nation.
The Daily Poll · Weigh In
What made the founders effective as a group?
Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.
★ Forge Your Freedom
How Well Do You Know American History?
Your Freedom Score puts a number on it — 60 seconds, free. See how you rank, then get a history moment like this in your brief every day.