American Independence: Celebrate Independence Day on July 4th
The Fourth of July is often regarded as the “birthday” of American independence. Across the nation, red, white, and blue bunting will adorn towns and cities as millions come together to celebrate this historic day.
This annual celebration of freedom, observed on July 4, is marked by cookouts, star-spangled parades, spectacular firework displays, and other patriotic activities.
Known as Independence Day, July 4 commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, though its journey to becoming the widely celebrated occasion it is today has been gradual.
Why Do We Celebrate the Fourth of July?
According to the Library of Congress, on July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the separation of the thirteen colonies from the Kingdom of Great Britain.
While the decision for independence was actually made two days earlier, History.com notes that July 4 has been recognized as the symbolic birth of American independence.
Contrary to popular belief, the signing of the Declaration of Independence did not occur on July 4. Delegates began signing the engrossed Declaration on August 2, as documented by the National Archives.
How Did Independence Day Celebrations Grow?
In a letter to his daughter, John Adams described the impromptu celebrations in Philadelphia on the first anniversary of the Declaration’s adoption.
“Yesterday, being the anniversary of American Independence, was celebrated here with a festivity and ceremony becoming the occasion… The thought of taking any notice of this day was not conceived until the second of this month, and it was not mentioned until the third.”
Despite its spontaneous nature, Adams marveled at the “brilliance and splendor” of Philadelphia’s inaugural Fourth of July celebration.
It’s difficult to imagine a time when Americans didn’t celebrate the Fourth of July. According to the Library of Congress, however, widespread celebrations didn’t occur until after the War of 1812. By the 1870s, it had evolved into “the most important secular holiday on the calendar,” with even remote communities participating.
Who Wrote the Star-Spangled Banner?
Francis Scott Key, a prominent attorney, transformed his wartime experience during the War of 1812 into the poem that would become the national anthem of the United States. In September 1814, Key witnessed a 25-hour British bombardment of Fort McHenry while negotiating the release of an American prisoner.
From his vantage point on the Patapsco River, Key saw the American flag still flying over the fort in the morning—a sight that inspired him to write what became known as “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Originally titled “Defence of Fort M’Henry,” the poem was set to the tune of a popular British song and quickly gained popularity. It wasn’t until March 1931, when President Herbert Hoover officially declared it the national anthem.
How Many White Stripes Are on the American Flag?
The American flag features 13 red and white horizontal stripes, symbolizing the original 13 colonies.
Of these, six stripes are white, representing purity and innocence, while the remaining seven are red, symbolizing hardiness and valor. According to PBS, the blue field in the top left corner represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice, and is adorned with 50 stars representing the 50 states.
Is the Fourth of July a Federal Holiday?
Yes, the Fourth of July is one of the first federal holidays. In 1870, Congress passed legislation establishing Independence Day, New Year’s Day, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving Day as holidays in the District of Columbia. These were the inaugural congressionally designated federal holidays, as per the Congressional Research Service.
Since then, the U.S. government has designated additional federal holidays, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, George Washington’s birthday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veterans Day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why is the Fourth of July considered the “birthday” of American independence?
The Fourth of July is celebrated as the “birthday” of American independence because it marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, announcing the colonies’ separation from Great Britain.
Q: Was the Declaration of Independence signed on July 4?
No, the Declaration of Independence was not signed on July 4. The signing of the engrossed Declaration began on August 2, 1776.
Q: How did the tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July begin?
The tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July began on its first anniversary in 1777, as John Adams wrote enthusiastically about the festivities in Philadelphia. Over the years, especially after the War of 1812, these celebrations grew into a widely observed secular holiday by the 1870s.
Q: Who wrote America’s national anthem?
Francis Scott Key wrote the poem that later became the lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the War of 1812.
Q: What do the stripes on the American flag represent?
The American flag’s 13 horizontal stripes represent the original 13 colonies. Six stripes are white, symbolizing purity and innocence, while seven are red, symbolizing hardiness and valor.
Q: Is the Fourth of July a federal holiday?
Yes, the Fourth of July is recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. It was one of the first congressionally designated federal holidays, established in 1870.
Stay updated on American holidays and their history by visiting trendalerthq.com Stay informed about the significant moments that shaped our nation.