Announcing the Great Decision, July 9, 1776 by Henry Hintermeister is a historical painting that captures a pivotal moment during the American Revolution—the public reading of the Declaration of Independence in New York City. On July 9, 1776, General George Washington ordered that the Declaration of Independence be read to his troops in New York City. The announcement led to an outpouring of patriotism, including the famous toppling of the equestrian statue of King George III in Bowling Green. This act symbolized the colonies’ break from British rule.