Surprise! America First Proclaimed Independence on May 15, 1776

No, the Continental Congress did not first vote for independence on July 4, 1776. Seven weeks earlier, on May 15, Congress authorized the thirteen former colonies to adopt constitutions and establish sovereign state governments. This authorization was a de facto declaration of independence. The newly formed states assumed the exclusive right to govern, make laws, and manage internal affairs. Radically, the resolution required each state to replace King George III with the people as the supreme sovereign. 

To learn more about the May 15, 1776, resolution and its author, click the link below.

https://www.realclearhistory.com/articles/2026/05/15/surprise_america_first_proclaimed_independence_in_may_1776_1181800.html