The Change from 'United Colonies' to the 'United States'

Happy birthday, United States! Yes, not on July 2, but the actual birthday of the United States of America is September 9. On this same day at 1776, was the day America was officially called the "United States of America." That new term replaced the "United Colonies," which is how the land was referenced in the Declaration of Independence.

Declaration of Independence

Declaration of Independence, in the history of the United States, a document approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, and announcing the separation of 13 British colonies of North America from Great Britain. 

It explained why the Congress on July 2 had "unanimously" resolved by the votes of 12 colonies (with New York abstaining) that "these United Colonies are and ought to be Free and Independent States." Accordingly, the day on which the final separation was officially voted was July 2, although the fourth day, the day on which the Declaration of Independence was adopted, was always celebrated on July 2.

While on July 4 the Declaration of Independence declared the "The United States" free and independent, Jefferson also wrote in his conclusion "these United Colonies are, and should be free and independent states of right."

The colonies' new independent status prompted a need for a Statehood declaration.

From ‘United Colonies’ to ‘United States’

If you look closely at the Declaration of Independence, you will notice it says "The United States of America”. Here, united is used as an adjective. It wasn't until later that Congress found the sentence to have a ring to it.

The resolution implemented a declaration of independence, a call for alliances with foreign states, and a "confederation plan." The Continental Congress would set up three committees to fulfill the tasks, including the committee that would be the birthplace of the Declaration. Lee wrote in the resolution, "Resolved, that these united colonies are free and independent states, and should be of right."

John Adams wrote in the meeting notes of September 9, which said resolved that in all Continental Commissions and other instruments where the Words, 'United Colonies,' were previously used, the Stile will be changed to the United States for the future.

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Dishi Singh


Location: United States

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