Independence Day

Yesterday the greatest question was decided which ever was debated in America, and a greater perhaps never was nor will be decided among men. A resolution was passed without one dissenting colony that these Unites Colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent States......

The second day of July, 1776 will be the most memorable ephoca in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the greatest anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance. By solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of this continent to another from this time forward forever.
You will think me transported with enthusiasm but I am not. I am will aware of the blood and treasure that it will cost us to maintain this declaration. Yet through all the gloom I can see ravishing rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is worth all the means, and that posterity will triumph in that says transaction even though we should rue it, which I trust in God we shall not.

Letters of John Adams to Abigail Adams July 2nd and 3rd 1776

Contrary to popular knowledge the Declaration was not signed on July 4th. The first vote was taken on July 1st which did not pass. The final vote was postponed until the next day. Delaware's vote was split and North Carolina unexpectedly changed their vote against independence and Pennsylvania as led by John Dickinson votes against Independence. On July second, John Dickinson and his supporters stayed away so their colony could vote in favor, North Carolina once again changed their vote and voted for independence. Caesar Rodney rode all through the night in rain and thunder, wearied by cancer to make it just in time to change Delawares vote for independence. Thus the vote was unanimous as we became an independent sovereign nation. I love this era of history and the Divine Providence of God in just this vote absolutely fascinates me. On July 3rd Congress debated the wording of the Declaration and on July 4th after revisions approved it. Not until August 2nd did the delegates sign the declaration. However some did not even sign until 1777. when affixing his name to the Declaration John Hancock president of Congress declared. "John Bull can read that signature without spectacles, let him double his reward." Stephen Hopkins the only one to sign the declaration with a trembling hand because of Paralysis declared. "My hand trembles but my heart does not."