Undoubtedly, it’s the most significant day in U.S. history. Independence Day, celebrated on the 4th of July, marks the moment when the colonies and the Second Continental Congress proclaimed their independence from England in 1776. This decision by the 13 original colonies altered the trajectory of not only this nation but also the world, as America continues to be the most powerful and free nation globally. Why do we celebrate this pivotal day, and what events led to it? Here are all the explanations you need.
The first celebration of the 4th of July dates back to 1777, just one year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Interestingly enough, it wasn’t until 1870 that the 4th of July became an official federally recognized holiday. Today, the 4th of July is America’s favorite summer holiday, bringing thousands of people together to celebrate their freedom and liberties over barbecues and outstanding firework shows.
One fact that often surprises many Americans is that the Declaration of Independence was actually voted upon on the 2nd of July, It wasn’t until the 4th however that the document was finalized and signed. Former founding fathers such as John Adams said the 2nd of July would become the birth date of America, but in fact it was the 4th that eventually took hold.
There were many events that led to the Continental Congress writing up the Declaration of Independence, as it was a process years in the making. While the colonies of the United States were all the way across the Atlantic Ocean from England, they were still under the rule of the Tyrant Kind George. The First Continental Congress was originally formed to find out what rights the colonies could get from British control, while the Second Continental Congress decided any military action, and was eventually the group that would declare was on Great Britain.
The revolution on England began with little statements here and there such as the Boston Tea Party and taxation without representation, but it wasn’t until the signing of the Declaration of Independence that the United States officially declared war on the British. Today, over 200 years later, we celebrate this holiday with as much excitement as ever and remember the sacrifice that hundreds of thousands of men made centuries ago to create the greatest country ever.
How do you celebrate the 4th of July? What are some of your favorite traditions? Let us know in the comments!
