The Lee Resolution was the independence resolution passed by Congress on July 2, 1776, before America250's July 4 milestone.
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia proposed the resolution, which declared that the United Colonies were free and independent states and no longer connected politically to Great Britain. Congress approved its independence clause on July 2, with New York abstaining because its delegates lacked authorization at that moment.
The Declaration of Independence followed two days later. It provided a formal explanation of the decision and presented the case for separation. Thus, July 2 was the decisive congressional independence vote, while July 4 became the date attached to the Declaration and the annual holiday.
The resolution also proposed foreign alliances and a plan of confederation, but those portions were considered separately. Its alternate name, the Resolution for Independence, describes its purpose directly.