From the era of the American Revolution to today, Independence Hall — originally the Pennsylvania State House — has anchored a lively forum of celebrations, demonstrations, and protests in Independence Square and in the expanded public space of Independence National Historical Park. Often these activities have called attention to the continuing struggle to achieve the ideals of liberty expressed in the nation’s founding documents. Independence Hall in American Memory calls attention to the importance of these activities for establishing Independence Hall as a significant landmark and symbol of American identity.

Link to Documents: Protests and Demonstrations.

Above: College students stage a sit-in at the Liberty Bell in 1965 to demonstrate their support for African American civil rights. Today, activities are governed by more restrictive federal regulations. (Independence National Historical Park)