The National Archives preserves and provides access to the records of the Federal Government. Here is a sample of these records, from our most celebrated milestones to little-known surprises .
Declaration of Independence
Articles of Confederation
The Constitution
Bill of Rights
Louisiana Purchase
List of Lewis's Purchases
District of Columbia Emancipation
Emancipation Proclamation
Abolition of Slavery
Edison's Light Bulb Patent
Zimmermann Telegram
Women's Right to Vote
Social Security Act
FDR's "Day of Infamy" Speech
Brown v. Board of Education
A Letter from Jackie Robinson
Voting Rights Act
Apollo 11 Flight Plan
Elvis's Letter to President Nixon