Independence Day 🇺🇸

Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States, also known as the Fourth of July, is a significant national holiday in the United States. It commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which declared the United States as a free and independent nation.

History of Independence Day

The history of Independence Day dates back to the American Revolutionary War, which was fought between Great Britain and thirteen British colonies in North America. Tensions between the colonies and the British government had been growing for years, fueled by grievances over taxation, lack of representation, and other issues.

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Britain, and two days later, on July 4th, they adopted the Declaration of Independence. The document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, outlined the colonies' grievances against King George III and proclaimed their right to self-governance. It was a momentous step towards establishing a new nation based on principles of liberty, equality, and individual rights.

Independence Day was not initially recognized as a federal holiday. However, various states and local communities continued to celebrate it annually.

In 1870, Congress passed a bill to make Independence Day a federal holiday for federal employees in Washington, D.C. This was expanded to include all federal employees in 1941. The holiday was officially recognized as a federal holiday to be celebrated nationwide.

How does the USA celebrate fourth of July

Independence Day is typically celebrated with a variety of patriotic activities and traditions across the United States. These include parades, fireworks displays, barbecues, picnics, concerts, and family gatherings. The colors red, white, and blue, representing the American flag, are prominently displayed during these festivities.

Fireworks are a highlight of many Independence Day celebrations. The tradition of lighting fireworks on July 4th originated with John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers and the second President of the United States. He envisioned fireworks as a way to commemorate the anniversary of independence and inspire a sense of national unity and pride.

Overall, Independence Day is a cherished holiday that brings people together to celebrate the birth of the United States and to reaffirm their commitment to the principles upon which the nation was founded.

While the legal holiday remains on July 4, if that date happens to be on a Saturday or Sunday, then federal government employees will instead take the day off on the adjacent Friday or Monday, respectively.