Whether you plan on spending the day barbecuing with family or visiting your local fireworks show, the Fourth of July marks America’s birthday - commemorating the day that the thirteen American colonies declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. But how did it come to look like the holiday we all know and love?
The Fourth of July - also known as Independence Day - originated on July 2nd 1776 but has only been deemed a national holiday since 1941. On July 2nd of 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Great Britain, and on July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted by delegates from the thirteen colonies.
In the years before the Revolutionary War, colonists held an annual celebration of the king’s birthday, which traditionally included ringing of bells, bonfires, and speeches given by influential individuals. This practice became scarce as more and more colonists advocated breaking from Britain and was eventually transformed into a celebration of America’s independence. The first public readings of the Declaration of Independence began immediately after its adoption in 1776, and Philadelphia became the first city to hold an annual commemoration of independence on July 4th, 1777.
Fireworks have become a staple of Independence Day celebrations, but have you ever asked the question of why that is? The first fireworks were used at the celebration in Philadelphia in 1777. At this celebration there was a 13-gun salute in order to honor the 13 colonies of America at the time. The secret society known as the Sons of Liberty also contributed to the celebration by setting off fireworks over Boston Common for the highlight of American independence festivities.
Falling in the middle of the summer, the Fourth of July became more focused on leisure activities from the late 19th century on. The holiday typically brings family get-togethers, fireworks, barbeque, and other family traditions passed on through generations of Americans. The most common symbol of the holiday is the American flag and the most common musical accompaniment is our national anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
We hope you enjoyed this Independence Day crash course! Now go and celebrate, Birmingham!
