On July 2, 1776, the proposition put forward by Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia, that these colonies have a right to be free and independent of Great Britain, was adopted by Congress.

John Adams who had spoken fervently in Congress that such a proposition should definitely be approved, was excited. He was so proud of this accomplishment that on July 3, he wrote home to Abigail:

“Yesterday the greatest Question was decided which ever was debated in America, and a greater perhaps never was nor will be decided among men . . . The Second Day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha [sic}, in the History of America—I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the day of Deliverance by Solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews [sic], Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires, and Illuminations from one end of the Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” (Capitalization as in the original letter).

Well, he thought the resolution was the main thing. History has accepted the inspired document written by Thomas Jefferson, as the main thing. More about that tomorrow.