In Congress, May 15, 1776 : Whereas His Britannic Majesty, in conjunction with the Lords and Commons of Great-Britain, has ... excluded the inhabitants of these United Colonies from the protection of the crown: ... Resolved, that it be recommended to the respective assemblies and convention of the United Colonies ... to adopt such government as shall in the opinion of the Representatives of the people best conduce to the happiness and safety of their constituents. - Adams, John, (Printed by John Dunlap,, 1776)