The following is excerpted from correspondence sent by future President John Adams, then in Philadelphia, to his wife, Abigail, on July 3, 1776. (Some changes have been made in spelling, capitalization and punctuation to make the text more accessible to readers 233 years removed from the birth of the nation). The original manuscripts are part of the Adams Family Papers held by the Massachusetts Historical Society.
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Yesterday, the greatest question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater, perhaps, never was or will be decided among men. A resolution was passed without one dissenting colony, "that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states, and as such they have, and of right ought to have, full power to make war, conclude peace, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which other states may rightfully do." You will see in a few days a Declaration setting forth the causes which have impelled us to this mighty revolution, and the reasons which will justify it in the sight of God and man. A plan of confederation will be taken up in a few days. ...
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 shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more.
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 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 triumph in that day's transaction, even although we should rue it, which I trust in God we shall not.
Posted
Jul 04 2009, 06:00 AM
by
Susan Mannella