On July 4th, 1776 the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence. Thus, the day is remembered as the true start of America’s independence from Britain. The day has been set aside to celebrate freedom since this momentous day. In 1870 the U.S. Congress made July 4th a federal holiday.
Independence Day History
Although the Continental Congress voted for the Declaration of Independence on July 2nd, its formal adoption did not occur until July 4th. During the summer of 1776 many colonists held mock funerals of King George III to symbolize the death of the monarchy in America. These early celebrations included festivals which featured music, parades and firing cannons and muskets. Celebrations usually concluded with a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Fireworks are also a key event during July 4th celebrations. The first display of fireworks occurred in Philadelphia in 1777. Many of these old traditions have their place in celebrations today.
Celebrations
Current celebrations include large and small events. People typically celebrate the day with family and friends outdoors enjoying cookouts, picnics, and parades. Many cities across the nation hold festivals and parades in honor of day.
With the rise of leisure, the July 4th emerged as a major midsummer holiday. The prevalence of heavy drinking and the many injuries caused by setting off fireworks prompted reformers of the late 19th and the early 20th century to mount a Safe and Sane Fourth of July movement. During the later 20th century, although it remained a national holiday marked by parades, concerts of patriotic music, and fireworks displays, Independence Day declined in importance as a venue for politics. It remains a potent symbol of national power and of specifically American qualities.
Working Toward True Equality
With the growth and diversification of American society, July 4th commemoration became a patriotic tradition which many groups – not just political parties – sought to claim. Abolitionists, women’s rights advocates, the temperance movement, and many modern diversity organizations seize the day and its observance. In the process, these groups remind America that some do not celebrate freedom within our communities because suppression of their rights remains acceptable.
While local events may look different each year, most Americans understand that to celebrate freedom we must reflect on America’s history. As we approach Independence Day, we must remember: An accurate historical record forgotten is truth denied.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: Britannica.com, History.com, and OfficeHolidays.com
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