July 2nd: America’s Actual Declaration of Independence

July 1, 1776 – the inevitable birth of a nation drew near.  Hours of debate ensued on what was a balmy Monday in Philadelphia.  The feverish mood set upon Congress was somber, the issue was crystal clear; the potential ratification of Richard Henry Lee’s motion to dissolve all allegiance with Great Britain and declare absolute independence from the Crown.  The motion, originally raised a month prior, and seconded by the colossus John Adams had finally run its course.  As a matter of historical fact, on this day the decision was already in effect made.  Nine states were in favor, versus two against (Delaware and South Carolina), with two other colonies abstaining (Pennsylvania and New York).

As it stood there was enough support to carry the vote and initiate the break, however with the wisdom and leadership of John Adams, Congress agreed that a unanimous decision was needed in order to show necessary strength and unity amongst the precocious colonies.  It was certain on this night, that more debate and backroom dealings were needed.

And so it began, the delegates met throughout the night, outside the walls of Congress to reach a working agreement for the final vote that would take place on July 2, 1776.  South Carolina agreed to switch their vote to the positive if Delaware would do the same – the problem here was that two of the three Delaware delegates were at an impasse.  John Dickenson of Pennsylvania (a devout Quaker), who was the most ardent opponent of independence maintained his penchant for peace with England.  Instead of allowing his ideals to be compromised with a public switch before the record, he agreed to not attended the vote thus allowing Pennsylvania to vote in favor of Lee’s motion.  Finally the New York delegation, who had yet to receive orders for separation from their constituents, pledged to be the one abstaining vote.

So, on July 2, 1776 it officially came to pass when in heroic fashion the ailing Caesar Rodney, afflicted with facial cancer rode tirelessly 80 miles throughout violent thunderstorms to break the Delaware deadlock and seal the fate of America.  In a recorded vote of 12-0-1, a snapshot of monumental import took place.  Thirteen fledgling colonies, of various backgrounds and beliefs, asserted themselves as the new era in the new world.  A place were a representative government by the people, for the people would rule the day; honoring the republican values sent down through the annals of history.

As we make our Independence Day preparations, take a simple moment to reflect and honor a seminal moment in the history of western civilization.  A moment in time where the perfect storm of circumstance coalesced in the great crucible of nation building.  I leave you with a excerpt from a letter that John Adams had written to his wife Abigail at the close of July the Second.

The second day of July 1776 will be the most memorable epocha 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, with games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more.

It is truly remarkable to hear a principle architect of this nation speak to us now in such a way.