Happy Independence Resolution Day!
250 years ago today, Richard Henry Lee proposed Independence
The subtitle says it all. On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia, tabled three resolutions before the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. Coming on months of debate and jockeying, and in the midst of a war going poorly for the Americans, Lee’s first resolution would change history.
(Richard Henry Lee’s handwritten resolutions of June 7, 1776. Image from the National Archives.)
“Resolved, that these United Colonies are, and of a right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
And, as I describe in National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America, this radical proposal was necessary to legitimize the following two resolutions, which were seen as more important:
“That it is expedient forthwith to take the most effectual measures for forming foreign Alliances.
“That a plan of confederation be prepared and transmitted to the respective Colonies for their consideration and approbation”
It was a step never before proposed in world history, and at the moment was a bridge just a bit too far for the Continental Congress. Powerful colonies including New York, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina remained opposed. Though seconded by John Adams, the resolution was set aside and a three-week recess called on June 11, to let the Patriots try to ensure a unanimous vote for Independence.
(249 years and 363 days after Richard Henry Lee proposed Independence in the building behind me. Photo taken on June 5, 2026.)
The question would remain in the balance until the fateful morning of July 2, but June 7 marks the beginning of the final days of the American colonies and the portal to Independence. Happy Resolution Day!