In early 1776, American public opinion was deeply divided over the issue of declaring independence from Britain. A discernible drift toward independence was occurring, but the publication of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense and news of King Gorge II’s decision to hire foreign mercenary soldiers to fight in America radicalized the views of many.

On May 10, the Cotinental congress adopted a resolution that urged the states to form their own independent governments to replace the defunct royal governments. Despite this action, opinion remained divided over the wisdom of having Congress itself make a statement of independence.

On June 7, 1776, the Virginia delegat erichard E.lee acting in accord with the instructions which the Virginia convention had given their delegation, brought three resolutions before the Congress:

1. A statement of independence that concluded with the words, "These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States."
2. A suggestion that Congress begin the establishment of formal diplomatic relations with other nations.
3. A proposal that Congress begin the planning of a confederation to govern the 13 states.