Brief History

We may have skimmed over the finer details in school, but understanding the roots of our freedoms enriches our appreciation of them. The American journey to independence is both captivating and complex.

In the 1700s, America was divided into 13 distinct colonies, not yet united. King George III imposed heavy taxes and laws from 1763 to 1773, including the Quartering Act of 1765, which allowed British soldiers to stay in colonists' homes and be fed by them. The Stamp Act of 1765 taxed all printed materials, fueling unrest. Tensions escalated with events like the Boston Massacre in 1770, where British soldiers killed Crispus Attucks and others, and the Boston Tea Party in 1773, a dramatic protest against tea taxes.

The Revolutionary War began in April 1775, initially with only a few colonists pushing for full independence. By mid-1776, discontent had grown, influenced by Thomas Paine’s pamphlet "Common Sense." On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee proposed independence to the Continental Congress, leading to the Declaration of Independence's adoption on July 4, 1776, drafted mainly by Thomas Jefferson.

John Adams anticipated July 2 would become a celebrated day, while Jefferson and Adams both passed away on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the Declaration. James Monroe also died on July 4, 1831, and Calvin Coolidge was born on the same date in 1872.

How It’s Celebrated

Independence Day is celebrated with a wide array of activities across the United States. Festivities often include vibrant fireworks displays, patriotic parades featuring marching bands and floats, and community gatherings. Many Americans enjoy traditional barbecues and picnics, featuring classic dishes like hamburgers, hot dogs, and apple pie.

Public festivities often feature grand ceremonies and concerts, highlighting stirring patriotic music and paying tribute to veterans. The American flag is prominently displayed, and a wide array of patriotic events take place, all aimed at celebrating the nation’s rich history and core values.

Additionally, many people display the American flag and participate in various patriotic events to celebrate the nation's history and values.

Independence Day

Interesting Facts

• John Adams’ Dismissal of July 4: John Adams, one of the key figures in American independence, actually dismissed July 4 as the day of celebration, arguing that the true vote for independence occurred on July 2, 1776. He believed that this date should have been the focus of festivities.
• Technically Speaking: While the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, the majority of the signatories did not put pen to paper until August 2, 1776.
• Multiple Revisions: Thomas Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration underwent 86 revisions before its final version was adopted, reflecting the extensive deliberation involved in shaping this pivotal document.
• More Than Just Independence: The Declaration of Independence served not only as a proclamation of freedom from Britain but also as a strategic move to establish the colonies' legitimacy in the eyes of potential foreign allies.
• A Hidden Note: Contrary to popular belief, there’s no treasure map on the back of the Declaration of Independence as depicted in the movie "National Treasure." However, the back of the document does have a written note stating, "Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776."