Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and when the
The United States declared its independence from Great Britain.
On July 2, 1776 the Second Continental Congress approved the Lee Resolution, also known as The Resolution of Independence. The text of the document formally announcing separation of the Thirteen Colonies from Great Britain and explaining this decision, The Declaration of Independence, was approved on July 4.
The text of the Declaration had been prepared by the Committee of 5, Thomas Jefferson being the principal author. The anniversary of the Declaration would come to be celebrated as Independence Day in the United States.
The first celebration of July 4 occurred in 1777. However, Independence Day had not become an official holiday until 1870 when Congress made it an unpaid holiday for federal employees. In 1938, it was changed to a paid federal holiday.
Independence Day celebrations include patriotic displays, political ceremonies and speeches, parades, concerts, carnivals, fairs. Family reunions often occur on this day; many families host or attend picnics or barbecues.
Ways to Honor and Celebrate Independence Day
1. Read the Declaration of Independence
If it were not for this historical document, we would not have this day celebrate our freedom!
2. Watch Fireworks
Watching fireworks is a tradition that dates back centuries.
3. Visit a National Landmark or Historical Site
Visit a Native Reservation, Civil War Battleground or War Memorial.
4. Wear red, white & blue
Wear a red, white and blue bandana, hat or a T-shirt with the American Flag on it.
“I’d like to be remembered as a person who wanted to be free and wanted other people to be also free.” Rosa Parks
Written and Submitted by GSS Agent#3013
Works Cited:
National Today
Awareness Days.com
Good Housekeeping.com
