Independence Day
From Giftypedia
[edit] History
As the name implies, the history of Independence Day is fraught with the struggle for independence. The 4th of July is commemorated as America’s official political split with its mother country of Great Britain. On that day in 1776, the settlers of the thirteen British colonies were already embroiled in the midst of the American Revolutionary War. The bloody conflict, which had begun the year before, arose as the colonists became outraged by what they felt was unjust, and even illegal, taxation by the British government. Not only did Great Britain impose a series of highly unpopular taxes, but it refused to grant the colonies appropriate representation in the governing British Parliament.
By June 11, 1776, the settlers had enough. Colony leaders, which included Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and Robert R. Livingston, formed a special committee to compose a blueprint of the Declaration of Independence, one of America’s most important legal and historical documents. This manifesto officially decreed the United States’ self-liberation from Great Britain. The final version with which Americans are most familiar with was formally adopted by the committee on July 4th.
According to History.com, the first official observance of Independence Day took place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 8th, 1776. The townspeople heard the Declaration of Independence read aloud, after which city bells rang and bands played to rejoice in the newfound freedom of the fledgling nation. Thus a rich tradition of patriotism and love of liberty was born amongst the American people on that day.
In 1941, Independence Day was formally declared a national holiday in America.
[edit] Celebrations
To celebrate the 4th of July, one of America’s most important national holidays, millions of people shoot firearms into the air, hold spectacular fireworks displays, and sing the national anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Many will munch on hamburgers and hot dogs with tiny American flags on toothpicks stuck in them. There are baseball games and parades and retailers make a fortune dressing us for these celebrations with 4th of July themed clothing.
It’s a day to remember and reflect on America’s most cherished values – freedom and liberty.
[edit] Independence Day of Other Countries
America is not the only country that celebrates an Independence Day. Brazil celebrates Dia da Independência on September 7 to commemorate their independence from Portugal and Mexico celebrates Día de la Independencia, on September 16th for their independence from Spain.
