Independence has been declared, the population is learning about the document, but there is a general sense of: “now, what shall we do?” It is true that the United Colonies or United States or whatever this nation is called is unilaterally independent, but her parent nation shall not release her easily. The Declaration of Independence is signed - but the battle has only just begun.

Continental Congress HAS SIGNED A DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE!  The UNITED STATES are OFFICIALLY INDEPENDENT from BRITAIN. LIBERTY BELLS ring out throughout Philadelphia; the streets ERUPT IN ECSTASY.

Continental Congress has convened for the day at the Pennsylvania State House. The doors are shut and the windows shaded to keep the sun out as much as possible - and to keep out eavesdroppers and spies. The delegates are stifling on the stuffy inside and we, the public, are presently unaware of the machinations occuring within.

For some unknown reason, Thomas Jefferson is preoccupied this morning with recording the temperature. He writes that upon awaking at 6 AM, the temperature is a pleasant 68.0 degrees Fahrenheit, but that it is creeping up toward 70. On his way to Congress, Jefferson purchases a thermometer. It costs three pounds and 15 shillings. No-body knows why he is so concerned with the temperature today, especially, and for what reason he desires an accurate read.

After South Carolina reverses its position, Continental Congress votes to declare INDEPENDENCE from Britain, adopting a legal separation from the Crown. Charles Thomson, Secretary for Continental Congress, uses hash marks to note how many colonies voted for the severance from the Crown. John Adams writes in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that “the second day of July, 1776 will be the most memorable epoch in American history.” But although newspapers report the independence, no mass celebrations break out.