God Save America! If we do not uphold our principles, we risk losing the essence that makes our nation unique, resilient, and the greatest country on earth,

Ray DiLorenzo , Bio and Archives--July 4, 2026

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On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to formally vote to declare independence from Great Britain. The vote of the states was 12 yes, 0 no, and 1 abstention. New York failed to vote because its delegates claimed they lacked direction from their state government.

After the vote, the delegates fell into a heavy, almost solemn silence when it became clear that the result had been unanimous. They knew the weight of their decision. They literally signed their death warrants. I wouldn't doubt that every man silently prayed to God for protection.

Following the vote, Congress debated and made minor revisions to the Declaration of Independence. The final text of the document, largely written by Thomas Jefferson and edited by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and other delegates, was adopted on July 4, 1776. The formal signing did not occur until August 2, 1776.

Great Britain now knew for certain who these traitors be.

It was the culmination of years of argument and toil to initially attempt to make peace with London and voice their discontent. The Southern states and New York insisted on making peace. It was clear in New England that they were at war, having already lost hundreds of men in battle. Petitions were repeatedly sent to London, which proved fruitless. The king had declared Americans rebels. John Dickinson of Pennsylvania wrote many of the petitions but was........

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