Adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence publicly announced to the world the decision of the 13 British-owned American colonies—already at war with the Motherland since 1775 in the Battles of Lexington and Concord—to declare themselves free and independent states, absolved from any allegiance to Great Britain.
Though eloquent, the Declaration was only a statement of intent. Many more years of bloody war followed, culminating in the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
Tomorrow, as you celebrate with family, friends, and perhaps spectacular fireworks, remember the thousands of Patriots who gave their lives for our liberty.
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