As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we are often so caught up in the document itself that we overlook the 56 people who signed it. While the Declaration itself is worthy of more consideration than we ever give it, we need to consider the men who placed themselves and their families at risk in signing the document.

As we approach July 4th this year, we are especially drawn to remember the 250th anniversary of The Declaration of Independence. But we must never forget that no document exists in a vacuum. Jefferson and the committee that worked on the Declaration of Independence were carrying out a charge they received after the Second Continental Congress adopted the Lee Resolution on June 7, 1776.

While many of us have been focused on America’s 250th anniversary as we celebrate the Declaration of Independence and remember the war that followed, we would be remiss to forget that this year also marks the 251st anniversary of one of our most important institutions.