On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Lee Resolution, which said

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.

On July 4, they approved the language of the Declaration of Independence, that listed the reasons they were separating themselves. They then had this copied on to a large manuscript, which they signed on August 4.

John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail on July 3, 1776

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.

(I like his thinking –  we should have gun matches on Independence Day.)

Later, in 1818, John Adams wrote

But what do we mean by the American Revolution? Do we mean the American war? The Revolution was effected before the war commenced. The Revolution was in the minds and hearts of the people; a change in their religious sentiments of their duties and obligations. While the king, and all in authority under him, were believed to govern in justice and mercy, according to the laws and constitution derived to them from the God of nature and transmitted to them by their ancestors, they thought themselves bound to pray for the king and queen and all the royal family, and all in authority under them, as ministers ordained of God for their good; but when they saw those powers renouncing all the principles of authority, and bent upon the destruction of all the securities of their lives, liberties, and properties, they thought it their duty to pray for the continental congress and all the thirteen State congresses.
. . . This radical change in the principles, opinions, sentiments, and affections of the people, was the real American Revolution.

Thus, we see that, in a real sense, the Revolution took place prior to 1776, and the real Declaration that this country was independent came on July 2. No matter what the famous document says.

Have a good one.

Julie Golob is giving away a Midland XTC video camera that clips on your hat. Go enter to win.

Actually, I want to win so I can have neat videos like Walt.