In the history commemorated by America250, Congress passed the Lee Resolution for independence on July 2, 1776.
The resolution, introduced by Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee, stated that the American colonies should be free and independent states. The Second Continental Congress approved it after debate in Philadelphia, creating the formal political decision to separate from Great Britain.
The Declaration of Independence followed as a public explanation of that decision. Congress adopted the final wording of the Declaration on July 4, 1776, which is why Independence Day is celebrated on July 4 rather than July 2. John Adams nevertheless believed July 2 would be remembered as the great national anniversary.
The dates describe related but distinct steps: July 2 was the vote for independence, while July 4 was the adoption of the Declaration’s final text. America250 focuses on the broader founding story and the 250th anniversary of the 1776 independence declaration.