As many amateur historians, trivia fanatics and various nerds (obviously including me) will tell you, July 4, 1776 is actually not the day that the Second Continental Congress voted for independence. In fact, the Congress declared independence on July 4th by approving the final version of Thomas Jefferson's Declaration of Independence.
Instead, the Second Continental Congress voted for Independence on July 2, 1776 - 240 years ago on this day - when it unanimously approved Richard Henry Lee's (VA) resolution saying:
Resolved, That these United Colonies are, and of 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.
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 is a seminal event in human history and the date that John Adams thought would forever be remembered.
The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch 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 shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
But, of course, Adams was wrong and instead July 4th is remembered as the anniversary of our Independence. Nonetheless, I like to take a moment and remember that today a new nation dedicated to liberty choose to spring into life from clutches of a British monarch.
So here's to Richard Henry Lee, John Adams and 13 bold colonies that united to defeat the most powerful empire in the world.
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!