<P> John Adams wrote his wife Abigail on July 3 about the resolution of independence: </P> <P> 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 . </P> <P> Adams's prediction was off by two days . From the outset, Americans celebrated Independence Day on July 4, the date the much - publicized Declaration of Independence was approved, rather than on July 2, the date the resolution of independence was adopted . </P> <P> As noted above, the two latter parts of the Lee Resolution were not passed until months later . The second part regarding the formation of foreign alliances was approved in September 1776, and the third part regarding a plan of confederation was approved in November 1777, but finally ratified in 1781 . </P>

Who said these united colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent states