On July 4, 1776, Americans claimed their independence
from Britain and Democracy was born. Every day thousands leave their homeland
to come to the “land of the free and the home of the brave” so they can begin
their American Dream.
History
In 1775, people in New England began fighting the British for their
independence. On July 2, 1776, the Congress secretly voted for independence
from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence was first published two
days later on July 4, 1776. The first public reading of the Declaration of
Independence was on July 8, 1776. Delegates began to sign the Declaration of
Independence on August 2, 1776. In 1870, Independence Day was made an unpaid
holiday for federal employees. In 1941, it became a paid holiday for them.
The first description of how Independence Day would be celebrated was in
a letter from John Adams to his wife Abigail on July 3, 1776. He described
"pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and
illuminations" throughout the United States. However, the term
"Independence Day" was not used until 1791.
Interestingly, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, both signers of the
Declaration of Independence and presidents of the United States, died on July
4, 1826 - exactly 50 years after the adoption of the declaration. It is also
important to note that Native Americans lived in the country and each tribe had
its own nation and government prior to the European settlers.
How is it celebrated?
Independence Day is a day of family celebrations with picnics and
barbecues, showing a great deal of emphasis on the American tradition of
political freedom. Activities associated with the day include watermelon or
hotdog eating competitions and sporting events, such as baseball games,
three-legged races, swimming activities and tug-of-war games.
Many people display the American flag outside their homes or buildings. Many communities arrange fireworks that are often accompanied by patriotic music. The most impressive fireworks are shown on television. Some employees use one or more of their vacation days to create a long weekend so that they can escape the heat at their favorite beach or vacation spot.
Public life
Independence Day is a federal holiday. If July 4 is a Saturday, it is
observed on Friday, July 3. If July 4 is a Sunday, it is observed on Monday,
July 5. Government offices and schools are closed. Some businesses may be
closed as well. In some years, many employees use a proportion of their
vacation days to create a long weekend. This can cause congestion in some
places, particularly towards popular holiday destinations.
There are many public events, parades, shows and fireworks displays.
This may cause local disruption to traffic. Public transit systems do not
usually operate on their regular timetables.
