At this time of the year, people are ready to fire up their grills, splash around in the pool, and enjoy the night sky being filled with dazzling colors and sparks as they fly through the sky. At the same time, do we know the history behind this momentous day?
America has been celebrating the 4th of July since 1776. However, what is known as our Independence Day can be dated back to the 18th century as well as the American Revolution. Back in 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence on July 2nd. Within 2 days all 13 colonies came together and signed what is known as the Declaration of Independence.
During the Revolutionary War in April of 1775, there were a few colonists who refused to become independent from Great Britain. However, by midyear the following year more and more colonists began to become in favor of independence. This was due to the growing hostility against Britain.
In June of 1776, the Congress met at the Pennsylvania State House where Richard Henry Lee, the Virginia delegate, introduced a motion for the colonies’ independence. This caused a very heated debate among everyone in the House. This heated debate ultimately caused a postponement of the vote of Lee’s proposed resolution.
However, a five-man committee was created to draft a formal statement that gave reasoning and justification for breaking with Great Britain. This committee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Roger Sherman, Benjamin Franklin, and Robert R. Livingston.
Less than a month later the Continental Congress all voted in favor of Lee’s motion for a resolution for independence. The vote was near unanimous. Two days later the Declaration of Independence was adopted.
During the first few anniversaries of independence, George Washington issued double rations of rum to all of his soldiers.
In 1870 Congress made July 4th a federal holiday. Then in 1941, it was granted a paid holiday for all federal holidays.
Since then our nation has celebrated the 4th of July in numerous and outstanding ways. From concerts and parades to backyard BBQs and firework shows. This specific day in the year allows for some of the most patriotic celebrations for everyone.
In the past, this time of year you see the proud displays of American flags among businesses, homes, and even on vehicles. Families come together to celebrate their patriotism by cooking food, having pool parties, taking part in parades, and the best part of the day is getting to watch the nightly fireworks show while listening to patriotic music such as the Star Spangled Banner.
This 4th of July enjoy your time with family and friends, celebrate, and keep safe and healthy. Please refrain from drinking and driving and do not take part in the setting of fireworks if it is prohibited in your area. Check with your city to find out information on parades and festivities.
Happy 4th of July!