Timeline of Events During the Writing and
Signing of the Declaration
June 7, 1776- Congress is urged to declare independence when they are introduced to Richard Henry Lee's Resolution.
June 28, 1776- Congress edits Jefferson's rough draft. The biggest decision is whether or not to adopt Lee's resolution.
July 2, 1776- Lee's resolution is accepted by 12 colonies, New York abstaining.
July 4, 1776- Congress completes editing the Declaration.
July 8, 1776- The Declaration is read aloud to the public.
June 28, 1776- Congress edits Jefferson's rough draft. The biggest decision is whether or not to adopt Lee's resolution.
July 2, 1776- Lee's resolution is accepted by 12 colonies, New York abstaining.
July 4, 1776- Congress completes editing the Declaration.
July 8, 1776- The Declaration is read aloud to the public.
July 9, 1776- All 13 colonies are in support of the Declaration. It is ordered to be printed.
August 2, 1776- Most members of congress sign the Declaration of Independence.
August 2, 1776- Most members of congress sign the Declaration of Independence.