So many of you tell me you love the history I send you on these celebratory days.
So, here are 7 little-known facts about July 4th…enjoy!
Every year, on the 4th of July, America bursts into a celebration. Parades snake down streets, backyard barbecues sizzle, and the night sky explodes with dazzling fireworks. But what exactly are we celebrating? It all goes back to a hot summer day in 1776 and a document that changed the course of history: the Declaration of Independence.
On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence. This document was primarily written by Thomas Jefferson. It outlined the principles of equality and the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Two days later, this same Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, approved the Declaration of Independence. This wasn't just a fancy announcement. It was a powerful statement that the colonies were no longer subjects of a king, but free and independent states.
Little-Known Fact #1: The Declaration Wasn't Signed on July 4th
Although we celebrate July 4th as Independence Day, the Declaration of Independence wasn't actually signed on that date. The Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration on July 4th, but it wasn't until August 2, 1776, that most of the delegates signed the document. So, while July 4th is celebrated as the birth of American independence, the actual signing took place almost a month later.
The First Celebrations
The first Independence Day was celebrated on July 4, 1777, while the Revolutionary War was still ongoing. In Philadelphia, there were bonfires, parades, and fireworks. Ships in the harbor were decorated with red, white, and blue bunting. The new nation was eager to celebrate its hard-won independence.
Little-Known Fact #2: Fireworks first
Believe it or not, the first official Fourth of July celebration with fireworks actually happened in 1777, a whole year after the Declaration was signed! The colonists were still fighting for their freedom, but they knew it was worth celebrating.
Little-Known Fact #3: Early Celebrations Included Mock Funerals
In the early years of Independence Day celebrations, some towns held mock funerals for King George III of England. These mock funerals symbolized the end of the monarchy's control over the American colonies and the birth of liberty. It was a way for Americans to express their joy and newfound freedom while also poking fun at their former ruler.
Modern-Day Traditions
The 4th of July is more than just a day off work or a chance to enjoy a barbecue. It’s a time to remember the courage and vision of those who fought for American independence. From its origins in the Revolutionary War to modern-day festivities, Independence Day is a celebration of freedom, unity, and the American spirit.
Little-Known Fact #4: Three Presidents Died on July 4th
It’s a curious coincidence that three of the Founding Fathers, who became presidents, died on July 4th. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams both passed away on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. James Monroe, the fifth president, died on July 4, 1831. These coincidences add a unique historical significance to the date.
Little-Known Fact #5: NOT a Declaration for All!
While the Declaration of Independence speaks of equality, it's important to remember that at the time, it only applied to white men. The fight for true equality for all citizens continues to this day.
Little-Known Fact #6: Pursuit of Happiness? What??!
The true meaning of this when Jefferson wrote “pursuit of happiness” in 1776 meant “pursuit of a meaningful life”. This is a life that provides a person with a sense of satisfaction that what they are doing is worth living for. It is believed he took this from John Locke, a British philosopher who believed the “pursuit of happiness” is the foundation of liberty since it frees us from attachment to any particular desire we might have at a given moment. Locke lived and died over 50 years before Jefferson wrote this.
So, the 4th of July is more than just a day off with fireworks. It's a reminder of the fight for freedom, the ideals America was founded on, and the ongoing journey to make those ideals a reality for everyone.
[TRUE STORY]
P.S. My friend in college was from England. One day she told me that they celebrate the 4th of July in England. I asked her, “Why? I’m pretty sure you lost the war.” She says, “Oh no, we think we won!” I’m still trying to figure this out…50 years later…maybe England thinks they got rid of a misbehaving child??
