The True Date of American Independence: September 3, 1783, or July 4, 1776?

For many Americans, the 4th of July is synonymous with the celebration of independence. Biannual festivities, parades, and fireworks mark this day. However, recent confusion has surrounded the true date of American independence – July 4, 1776, or September 3, 1783? While the traditional declaration date is celebrated annually, the legal and historical context surrounding the Treaty of Paris offers a compelling argument for another perspective.

Understanding the Declaration of Independence

On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress issued the Declaration of Independence, formally declaring the American colonies as free and independent states. Interestingly, few Americans have likely read the original document, as it was not widely distributed or published. Nevertheless, the date has become deeply ingrained in American culture and national identity.

The Treaty of Paris and American Independence

The definitive end to the Revolutionary War was marked by the Treaty of Paris, signed on September 3, 1783, between the United States and the British Crown. This treaty effectively ended British control over the newly formed nation.

Textual Analysis of the Treaty

One of the most notable points in this treaty revolves around a critical misunderstanding in language. In the document, Prince George III references the United States of America (USA) as a newly formed corporation. This implies that the term "United States of America, USA" refers to a geographical location, while "United States, U.S." could be understood as a corporate entity. This subtle language distinction can significantly impact historical interpretation.

Supporting Evidence from Legal and Constitutional Norms

The ambiguity in the treaty is further supported by the U.S. Constitution. The Constitution's preamble states, "We the People of the United States, U.S., do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America, USA." This usage aligns with the corporate entity interpretation, rather than a sovereign nation. Additionally, section 2 of the Constitution specifically mentions the office of the President of the United States, USA, and includes the corresponding oath for the U.S. President, indicating that the treaty's usage is in line with constitutional norms.

Historical Significance and Contemporary Relevance

Such an interpretation might prompt a reevaluation of historical events and their place in American lore. The Treaty of Paris not only brought an end to the ongoing conflict but also marked the beginning of a new era in international relations for the United States. The document's legal and linguistic nuances provide a critical perspective that challenges traditional views of American independence.

Conclusion

The Treaty of Paris on September 3, 1783, is often overlooked in favor of July 4, 1776, but it is arguably the true date of American independence. The document officially recognized the sovereignty of the United States, ending the long and drawn-out conflict with the British crown. While celebrations on July 4th continue to rally national pride, the Treaty of Paris deserves the recognition it has long deserved, as it effectively opened the doors for an independent nation.

For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, the transcript of the Treaty of Paris is available online at Yale Law Library under the Avalon Project. It is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the formal legal recognition of American independence.