The Second Continental Congress approved the Lee Resolution on July 2, 1776, preceding America250’s founding event.
Introduced by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia, the resolution declared that the United Colonies were free and independent states and no longer subject to Great Britain. Congress approved it two days before adopting the Declaration of Independence.
The Declaration served as a public explanation of the decision made through the Lee Resolution. Because the Declaration is dated July 4, Independence Day became associated with that date rather than July 2.
John Adams believed July 2 would become the principal annual celebration. Instead, public readings, printed copies, and the date on the Declaration helped establish July 4 as the national holiday.