Behind the Fireworks: the Significance of the Fourth of July

Each year on July 4th, you may notice that your neighborhoods and cities become a sea of red, white, and blue. Family barbecues, vibrant parades, and spectacular firework displays take over the country. This day, known as the Fourth of July or Independence Day, is not just about the fun festivities; it is a significant part of America's history.

Understanding the History

The story of the Fourth of July began more than 200 years ago, when America was not a country but 13 colonies under British control. The people living in these colonies were not happy because the British king was making them pay high taxes, but they had no say in these decisions. This led to a famous phrase you might have heard, 'No taxation without representation.' It means they didn't want to be taxed unless they had representatives in the British government.

In 1775, the tension between the British and the colonies turned into a full-fledged conflict, known as the American Revolution. The following year, in 1776, representatives from the 13 colonies gathered at a meeting known as the Continental Congress. On July 2, they decided they didn't want to be part of Britain anymore. They chose independence.

By Robert Edge Pine - Historical Society of Pennsylvania, via Explore PA History, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4083850

But why do we celebrate on the Fourth of July, not the second? Here's why: Two days later, on July 4th, these representatives adopted the Declaration of Independence, a very important document that explained why they wanted to be a separate nation. Thomas Jefferson, who would later become a President, wrote most of it.

While the war with Britain didn't officially end until 1783, the Declaration of Independence was a bold step. It marked the point of no return in the quest for freedom. Even though it wasn't 'Independence Day' yet, the 4th of July became the symbol of American independence.

Lesser Known Facts about Independence Day that May surprise you

Delayed Celebrations: Although the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, the first organized celebration of Independence Day didn't occur until July 8th when the declaration was read aloud to the public in Philadelphia's Independence Square.

Two Founding Fathers and Future Presidents Died on July 4th: Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, the 2nd and 3rd Presidents of the United States, respectively, died on the same day: July 4, 1826, which was exactly 50 years after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

Wrong Date?: John Adams believed that July 2nd, the day the Continental Congress actually voted for independence, would be celebrated as America's birthday. In fact, he reportedly turned down invitations to July 4th events in protest.

The Liberty Bell Tradition: It's a tradition to tap (not officially ring, due to concerns about cracking it further) the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia 13 times on every Fourth of July. This is in honor of the original 13 colonies.

American-Eagle Misconception: The American Eagle became the official national bird after a much-heated debate. Benjamin Franklin actually preferred the turkey, which he thought was a more respectable bird.

Not a Federal Holiday Until Later: Despite the long-standing celebrations, the Fourth of July was not officially declared a federal holiday until 1870, nearly a century after the nation declared its independence.

Global Celebrations: The Fourth of July is also celebrated in other parts of the world where Americans gather. For instance, Denmark celebrates an American Independence Day because thousands of Danes emigrated to the United States in the early 1900s.

These little-known facts add even more color and intrigue to the rich history of Independence Day. The Fourth of July is not just a date on a calendar; it is a symbol of unity, resilience, and the American spirit of freedom.

Why is the Fourth of July Important?

The Fourth of July is a day of celebration, but it's also a reminder of the bravery and determination of the nation's founders. It's a day when Americans remember their history and reflect on the values that the country was built on, such as freedom, equality, and the idea that the government should be accountable to the people, not the other way around.

So, the next time you're enjoying a Fourth of July barbecue or watching fireworks light up the night sky, remember that the day is more than just a fun summer celebration. It's a celebration of America's independence, a tribute to the bold decision made by the country's founders more than two centuries ago, and a reminder of the values that make the United States unique.