BTN News: The 4th of July, also known as Independence Day, is a big celebration in the United States. Cities are decorated in red, white, and blue. Fireworks light up the skies. People enjoy barbecues in their backyards. Some places even have hot dog eating contests. But, the 4th of July is not just about fun. It has a deep history and many traditions that tell America’s story of freedom.
The Origins and History Behind the 4th of July Celebrations in America: The 4th of July marks the day in 1776 when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. This important document, mainly written by Thomas Jefferson, declared America’s separation from British rule. The declaration was adopted two days after the vote for independence. This document is like America’s birth certificate. It was created by a group including Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. The 4th of July became an official holiday in 1870. It became a paid holiday for federal employees in 1941.
Some Interesting Facts About the Declaration of Independence You Might Not Know: Many people know about John Hancock’s big signature and Thomas Jefferson’s role as the main writer. But, there are some facts that are not so well known. For example, the Declaration was not signed on the 4th of July. The Continental Congress adopted it on that day, but most delegates signed it on August 2, 1776. The New York delegates gave their support on July 9, and the official document was not ready until July 19. John Adams thought that July 2, the day of the vote for independence, would be celebrated as Independence Day.
There Are Many Copies and a Mysterious Mark on the Declaration of Independence: The Declaration of Independence was printed and distributed widely. These printed copies are called “Dunlap broadsides” after John Dunlap, who printed them. Out of hundreds of copies, only 26 are known to exist today. Two were found in recent years—one in a picture frame bought at a flea market, and another in the British National Archives. There is also a mystery about a handprint on the bottom left corner of the document. No one knows where it came from. The document was not always well protected. It was rolled up and exposed to light. Now, it is kept safe in a special frame. During World War II, it was stored at Fort Knox.
A Shared Legacy and Famous Phrases from American History: Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, both important in making the Declaration, died on July 4, 1826. This was exactly 50 years after the Declaration was adopted. This coincidence adds a special touch to Independence Day history. The phrase “land of the free, home of the brave” comes from the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” This song, written by Francis Scott Key, describes the 1814 bombing of Fort McHenry. It was made the national anthem in 1931.
Conclusion: The 4th of July is more than fireworks and barbecues. It is a day to remember America’s struggle for independence and the key moments that shaped the nation. As we enjoy the celebrations, we also honor the legacy of the Founding Fathers and the spirit of freedom and bravery that define the United States.
