The Lee Resolution declared the Thirteen Colonies independent on July 2, 1776.
The Second Continental Congress approved the resolution after Richard Henry Lee of Virginia proposed that the colonies become “free and independent States.” Twelve colonies voted in favor; New York abstained because its delegates had not yet received authorization. New York later joined the decision.
July 2 is distinct from July 4. Congress passed the independence resolution on July 2, then debated and approved the Declaration of Independence as the formal explanation of that decision on July 4. The Declaration’s adoption date became the national Independence Day date celebrated in America250.
John Adams believed July 2 would be remembered as the most important date in American history. His prediction was overtaken by the popularity of July 4, which appeared on the printed Declaration and became the enduring civic anniversary.