Washington (July 04, 2018): Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States of America (USA) that celebrates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
On this date, the Continental Congress declared the thirteen American colonies were a new nation called the United States of America.
The 4th of July is usually celebrated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, picnics baseball games. Other people also celebrate with public and private events that celebrate the history, governments and traditions of the US.
Politicians may give a speech at these events to show their support for the heritage and people of their country.
Residents often display the American flag outside their homes or buildings. The Statue of Liberty is also the national monument that is associated with Independence Day.
The Fourth of July is a federal holiday, so if the day falls on a Saturday, it is observed on Friday, July 3 – giving workers a nice day off.
Schools and Government offices close for the holiday, as well as some businesses in order to avoid the traffic disruption on the day.
What is Independence Day?
People living in New England began battling the British for their independence in 1775.
Before European settlers arrived, Native Americans lived in the country and each tribe had its own nation and government.
On July 2, 1776, the Congress secretly voted for independence from Great Britain.
A couple of days later, the final wording of the Declaration of Independence was approved, and the document was then published. Delegates began to sign the Declaration of Independence on August 2, 1776.
The Second President of the United States, John Adams, wrote a letter to his wife Abigail on July 3, 1776 with a description of how the day would be celebrated.
This included “pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations” throughout the United States. The term “Independence Day” was not used until 1791.
Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, who both signed of the Declaration of Independence and were both presidents of the United States, died on July 4, 1826. This was exactly 50 years after the declaration was adopted.
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