The Lee Resolution formally proposed that the American colonies become independent states in 1776.
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduced the resolution in the Second Continental Congress on June 7, 1776. Its central proposal declared that the United Colonies should be free and independent states and that their political connection with Great Britain should be dissolved.
Congress debated the proposal before adopting it on July 2, 1776. John Adams regarded that date as the moment when the colonies made the decisive independence choice. Two days later, Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, which explained the reasons and principles behind the separation.
The Lee Resolution and the Declaration are therefore related but different documents. The resolution was the formal decision to pursue independence; the declaration was the public justification. July 4 became the celebrated national date because it is printed on the declaration and marks its adoption.