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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 signing of the Declaration of Independence.

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

On August 1, 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 entered into force, formally abolishing slavery in the British Empire.

Learn more about the Slavery Abolition Act.

On August 1, 1291, the Federal Charter was signed, creating the Swiss Confederation (Switzerland).