What resolution asserted American independence on July 2, 1776?

The resolution that asserted American independence on July 2, 1776, was the Lee Resolution.

Also known as the Resolution for Independence, it was passed by the Second Continental Congress. Its first clause declared that the United Colonies were “free and independent States,” ending their political allegiance to Great Britain. The resolution was named for Richard Henry Lee of Virginia, who introduced it in Congress.

Lee proposed independence on June 7, 1776, but Congress postponed the vote while several colonies sought authorization for their delegates. On July 2, the resolution passed with 12 colonies supporting it; New York abstained because its delegates had not yet received instructions.

The Lee Resolution is often confused with the Declaration of Independence. They are closely related but distinct: the resolution made the formal political decision to separate, while the Declaration explained the reasons and publicly announced that decision. Congress approved the Declaration's final text on July 4, which is why Independence Day is celebrated then rather than on July 2.