A United States federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, Independence Day is also referred to as the 4th of July. The United States of America established itself as a sovereign nation with this milestone manuscript in which the 13 American colonies formally broke away from Great Britain ¹.
Contrary to popular opinion, it was not July 4, 1776 that the Continental Congress voted to make a declaration of independence (that happened on July 2, 1776), when Thomas Jefferson wrote the initial draft of the Declaration of Independence (that happened in June 1776). The day the Declaration was signed (August 2, 1776) or presented to Great Britain (November 1776) was not even.
And so, what really happened on the 4th of July 1776? The Continental Congress adopted the final version of the Declaration of Independence on this day after some negotations over several days since the draft was submitted on July 2nd. Since it formally declared the 13 colonies‘ independence from Great Britain and formed the United States of America as an independent nation, this was a turning point in American history.
The 4th of July observance honors not just festivities such as fireworks, parades, and barbecues but also the courageous men and women who fought for the principles upon which the United States was established: freedom, democracy, and self-governance.
Basically, the 4th of July marks American freedom, autonomy, and patriotism and helps to remind us of the nation’s long history and the ideals that have transformed it into the country it is now.
The 4th of July is celebrated throughout the United States today with numerous traditions, among which:
Fireworks are now a necessary part of Independence Day celebrations, symbolizing the explosives used during the Revolutionary War.
Parades: Parades honoring the holiday typically consist of marching bands, floats, and local groups in most towns and cities.
Picnics and Barbecues: Celebrating the 4th of July with family and friends by having a barbecue or picnic is one of the popular methods of doing so.
* Some cities organize patriotic events such as concerts, flagraising ceremonies, and reenactments.
Family Reunions: The 4th of July sometimes serves as an occasion for family reunions because people come together to celebrate their nationality and freedom.
Aside from these traditions, a lot of Americans also commemorate the 4th of July through:
A lot of individuals place the American flag in front of their homes, businesses, and government offices to show their nationalism.
Singing Patriotic Hymns: Singing patriotic hymns such as “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful” are a popular 4th of July celebration.
Learning About American History: Most individuals take the opportunity to learn more about American history and the significance of the Declaration of Independence.
Freedom, independence, and patriotism are celebrated on the 4th of July in its entirety. It is when Americans ought to get together and reflect on the country’s history, values, and traditions.
