Richard Henry Lee proposed the Lee Resolution calling for American independence in the Continental Congress.
Lee, a Virginia delegate, introduced the resolution on June 7, 1776, after Virginia’s revolutionary government instructed its congressional representatives to seek independence. John Adams seconded the motion. The proposal said the colonies should become free and independent states and end their political connection with Great Britain.
Congress delayed the independence vote for several weeks while delegates sought instructions and support from the colonies. On July 2, Congress approved the resolution’s independence clause. Two days later, it adopted the Declaration of Independence, which explained why separation was justified.
The Lee Resolution and the Declaration are related but different documents. The resolution made the formal political decision to separate, while the Declaration presented the argument and grievances behind that decision. This distinction is why July 2 and July 4 both appear in accounts of American independence.