Happy Independence Day!

The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.

The Founding Father delegates of the Second Continental Congress declared that the Thirteen Colonies were no longer subject (and subordinate) to the monarch of Britain, King George III, and were now united, free, and independent states. The Congress voted to approve independence by passing the Lee Resolution on July 2 and adopted the Declaration of Independence two days later, on July 4.

Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States.

Fourth of July Facts and History

Independence Day was established as a Federal holiday by Congress in 1870.

• Several alterations were made to Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration of Independence by Adams and Franklin. This copy became known as the Original Rough Draught.
• Forty-seven additional changes were made to the Original Rough Draught by the committee before presenting to the rest of Congress. 
• Thirty-nine additional changes were documented before the final draft was completed and signed. 
• The first public readings of the Declaration of Independence took place in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.
• The tradition of setting off fireworks as a way of celebrating Independence Day began in Philadelphia, the city in which the Declaration was signed, in 1777. The “rocket” show, as it was called then, both began and ended with firing 13 cannons to honor each of the 13 colonies.
• Massachusetts was the first state to officially recognize the July 4th holiday.
• Celebrating Independence Day with significant pomp and circumstance became even more popular after America once again defeated the British in the war of 1812. 
• Independence Day was not a paid Federal holiday until 1941.

We wish you all a safe and Happy Independence Day celebration!