The Liberty Bell, a bronze bell in Philadelphia, became one of the most recognizable symbols of American independence and liberty, though it began as a practical city bell for the Pennsylvania State House. Commissioned in 1752, it cracked on arrival and was twice recast locally before being hung in the State House steeple in 1753. During the Revolution it was removed to Allentown for safekeeping from advancing British forces, then returned in 1778. Although its connection to the Declaration of Independence is less certain than legend suggests, abolitionists later embraced it as an emblem, helping establish its enduring national meaning.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · USA