Congress approved the Lee Resolution on July 2, 1776, two days before the Declaration of Independence.
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduced the resolution in the Second Continental Congress. Its central clause stated that the United Colonies were free and independent states and no longer owed allegiance to the British Crown.
The resolution was debated and delayed while delegates sought authorization from colonies that had not yet instructed them to support independence. Once approved, it provided the political decision that the Declaration would explain and announce. The Declaration’s concluding language also reflected the resolution’s independence formula.
July 4 became the national anniversary because Congress approved the Declaration on that date. John Adams, who supported independence, believed July 2 would become the main annual celebration. His prediction was not followed, but the distinction remains important: July 2 was the formal independence vote, while July 4 was the document’s approval date.