Richard Henry Lee introduced the Lee Resolution in June 1776 before America’s independence declaration.
On June 7, 1776, Lee presented the resolution to the Second Continental Congress after receiving instructions from Virginia. Its central proposal stated that the United Colonies should be free and independent states. The motion launched the formal congressional process that led to independence.
Congress delayed a final vote while delegates consulted their colonies and worked on a public explanation. On July 2, Congress adopted the independence resolution. A committee led by Thomas Jefferson prepared the Declaration of Independence, which Congress debated and adopted on July 4.
The Lee Resolution and the Declaration are therefore related but not interchangeable. The resolution was the congressional decision to pursue separation; the Declaration was the fuller statement of principles, grievances, and justification. This distinction is important when tracing the events commemorated by America250.