The Declaration of Independence Poster

The Declaration of Independence 1938

★ 6.39 votes17 min📅 1938-11-26

Step back into 1776 with Crane Wilbur's gripping historical featurette, The Declaration of Independence (1938), where the fate of a nation hangs on one man's courage.

Director: Crane Wilbur

Cast

John Litel
John Litel
Thomas Jefferson
Ted Osborne
Ted Osborne
Caesar Rodney
Rosella Towne
Rosella Towne
Betsy Kramer
Richard Bond
Richard Bond
Thomas Lynch Jr.
Owen King
Edward Rutledge
Lionel Belmore
Lionel Belmore
The Innkeeper (uncredited)
Sidney Bracey
Sidney Bracey
Congress Clerk (uncredited)
Tom Chatterton
Tom Chatterton
Richard Henry Lee (uncredited)
Hal Craig
Man Shooting at Rodney (uncredited)
Henry Hall
Henry Hall
John Hancock (uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Declaration of Independence (1938) about?

This short historical drama follows Caesar Rodney, a Delaware delegate to the Continental Congress, as he overcomes illness and personal odds to cast the deciding vote in favor of adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. His act becomes a cornerstone of American independence.

Who directed The Declaration of Independence?

The film was directed by Crane Wilbur, a versatile filmmaker known for blending historical drama with compelling storytelling.

Who stars in The Declaration of Independence?

The cast features John Litel, Ted Osborne, Rosella Towne, Richard Bond, and Owen King as key figures in this pivotal moment in history.

Is The Declaration of Independence (1938) worth watching?

Despite its short runtime, this historical drama offers a powerful snapshot of courage and conviction at a turning point in American history. While unrated, its focus on authenticity and character-driven storytelling makes it a worthy watch for history enthusiasts and classic film fans.

How long is The Declaration of Independence?

The Declaration of Independence (1938) has a runtime of 17 minutes.

About The Declaration of Independence (1938) — A 17-minute drama that changed history forever

Step back into 1776 with Crane Wilbur's gripping historical featurette, The Declaration of Independence (1938), where the fate of a nation hangs on one man's courage. Delaware's Caesar Rodney arrives at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, his health failing yet his resolve unshaken, to cast the decisive vote that seals America's break from British rule. Through Wilbur's sharp direction and a cast bringing gravitas to the Founding Fathers' struggle, the film captures the urgency and moral weight of a moment that reshaped history.

Drenched in patriotic fervor and historical authenticity, this 17-minute drama turns a pivotal vote into a tense, character-driven narrative. The atmosphere crackles with the tension of revolution—deliberations behind closed doors, the quiet heroism of a delegate defying personal cost, and the birth of an idea that would echo through centuries. For history buffs and fans of classic drama alike, it's a microcosm of sacrifice, conviction, and the fragile art of compromise.