July 2, 1776
(Introduced by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia and seconded by John Adams.)
THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS
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. (Passed shortly after the Declaration.)
That a plan of confederation be prepared and transmitted to the respective Colonies for their consideration and approbation. (Passed later, forming the basis for the Articles of Confederation.)