Every year the skies illuminate with fireworks while songs of pride and smells of barbecue overtake the air on the Fourth of July. Americans reflect on the values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that our Founders claimed in the name of independence by seceding from the tyrannical rule of King George III. There's just one problem — are the celebrations two days late? John Adams thinks so.
“But the Day is past. The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America.”
— History Calendar (@historycalendar) July 2, 2026
— John Adams, letter to his wife Abigail, July 3, 1776. pic.twitter.com/TNM9Gs4Ksk
On July 3, 1776, John Adams penned a letter to his wife Abigail in which he declared "The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. Why? On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress officially voted for independence. The approved resolution, submitted by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia, declared “That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
July 2, 1776 — The Continental Congress approved Richard Henry Lee’s resolution declaring the thirteen colonies “Free and Independent States.” Legally, this was the day the United States declared its independence from Great Britain. pic.twitter.com/PdaCFPFyY7
— History Calendar (@historycalendar) July 2, 2026
Today in 1776, the Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia pass a resolution proclaiming the sovereignty of the American colonies in rebellion against Britain. Despite being ratified on July 2, the Declaration of Independence will not be published for another two days. pic.twitter.com/OOO3alOP8n
— Military History Now (@MilHistNow) July 2, 2026
It wasn't until July 4, 1776, that Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, authored by Thomas Jefferson. That was the day ultimately chosen to celebrate independence, much to Adams' dismay. He was so adamant in his belief that he was known to decline invitations to celebratory festivals and events even when he was serving as President. Famously, both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died 200 years ago on July 4, 1826, on the nation's 50th birthday.
Though he was disappointed about the designated day, John Adams was spot-on with the description of how to celebrate. He detailed his ideal 'Second of July' celebration, which would be carried on for generations in his letter to Abigail:
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 Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.
He continues with a profoundly timeless reminder of the cost of independence that burdens all generations who wish to preserve it.
You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. -- I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. -- Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.
So, whether you side with Adams or stick with the Fourth, be sure to make the Founders proud by celebrating this extra special 250th anniversary with "Pomp and Parade," and a keen appreciation for the cost of living in the Land of the Free. Oh, and a Happy Second of July!