This Week in 1776

THIS DAY IN HISTORY

The Countdown to July 4, 1776

As we approach the 250th anniversary of American Independence, it’s inspiring to look back at the fateful week when the Continental Congress took the final, decisive steps toward freedom. The days from June 28 to July 4, 1776, were filled with debate, courage, and Providential timing.

On June 28, the Committee of Five returned with their draft, titled “A Declaration by the Representatives of the United States of America.” Thomas Jefferson had done most of the writing, with Benjamin Franklin and John Adams making key edits (including adding the famous “self-evident” phrase).

July 1 marked the official start of debate on Richard Henry Lee’s June 7 resolution declaring the colonies “free and independent States.” Tensions ran high in the Pennsylvania State House as delegates weighed the risks of separation from Britain.

Then came July 2 when Congress voted for independence. Twelve colonies said yes; New York abstained, still awaiting instructions from home. Delaware’s Caesar Rodney made his legendary ride through a thunderstorm, arriving in time to cast his colony’s deciding vote. Now, Congress turned to the document that would explain why America was declaring independence.

Over the next two days (July 2–4), the delegates debated the four-page Declaration draft line by line in secret session. They made dozens of changes, shortening the text by removing several passages—including Jefferson’s strong condemnation of the slave trade. On July 4, the final version was approved and ordered printed. (New York’s later agreement with independence allowed the engrossed parchment copy to proudly bear the title “The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen United States of America.”)

John Adams captured the spirit of those days in a letter to his wife on July 3, 1776, stating that the occasion should be marked “by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty” with “Pomp and Parade… from one End of this Continent to the other.” He was right about the celebrations—even if Americans ultimately chose July 4th as the date to remember.

These were not abstract debates. They were the determined actions of real men who pledged their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor.” As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary, let’s give thanks for their courage and the God who sustained them.

New Release: Lives, Fortunes, & Sacred Honor

Get our newest book to learn more about this important time in American history and the sacrifices made for us today! Discover the faith and courageous actions of the 56 signers during the Revolution, including those who lost family members, homes, and even their lives. Relive the events leading up to the Declaration of Independence which is the reason we’re celebrating our 250th birthday on July 4th!

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