u.s independence day facts
1. Declaration of Independence: Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This document announced the separation of the American colonies from Great Britain and the formation of a new nation, the United States of America.
2. Original Independence: Although the Declaration was adopted on July 4, it was actually ratified by Congress two days earlier, on July 2, 1776.
3. Signature: The most famous signature on the Declaration of Independence is that of JH, President of the Continental Congress. His signature is the largest and most prominent on the document
4. Celebration Bell: The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is often associated with Independence Day. It is said to have been played on July 4, 1776, to announce the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, although this claim is not historically accurate.
5. Fireworks Tradition: Fireworks have been a popular tradition on Independence Day since the early years of the United States. The first fireworks display in celebration of the Fourth of July took place in 1777 in Philadelphia.
6. Patriotic Colors: The colors most commonly associated with Independence Day are red, white, and blue. Red symbolizes valor and bravery, white represents purity and innocence, and blue symbolizes vigilance, firmness and justice.
7. National holiday: Independence Day became a federal holiday in the United States in 1870. It is a day of national pride and is celebrated with a variety of activities including parades, picnics, barbecues, concerts and fireworks.
8. Founding Fathers: The Declaration of Independence was drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, with contributions from John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert Livingston, and others.
9. 50-Star Flag: The flag of the United States, often displayed on Independence Day, has 50 stars representing the country’s 50 states. The 50-star design became official on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became a state.
10. Famous Hot Dog Contest: One of the most popular Independence Day events is the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest held at Coney Island, New York. Contestants compete to see who can eat the most hot dogs in a given time limit.