The Second Continental Congress approved the Lee Resolution on July 2, 1776, before America250’s celebrated Declaration date.
Introduced by Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee, the resolution declared that the United Colonies were free and independent states. Its approval was the formal congressional decision to separate from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence then explained and announced that decision in a more expansive statement.
The distinction between July 2 and July 4 often produces confusion. July 2 was the date Congress adopted the independence resolution. July 4 was the date Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, which became the date used for the national Independence Day holiday.
John Adams famously believed July 2 would be remembered as the great anniversary, but public tradition developed around July 4 instead. America250 focuses on the 250th anniversary of independence while recognizing both milestones in the revolutionary timeline.