Each year, Americans celebrate the Fourth of July with a range of traditions, including barbecues, yard games, concerts, parades, and fireworks displays. This day marks the birth of the nation after gaining independence from Great Britain. To add some excitement to your celebrations, here are some fun and lesser-known facts about the Fourth of July:
1. Independence was not officially declared on July 4th. While July 4, 1776, is recognized as the date when Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, the actual vote for independence took place on July 2. John Adams, in a letter to his wife, predicted that July 2 would be celebrated as the true Independence Day.
2. There are currently 26 original copies of the Declaration of Independence still in existence. After its adoption, the approved text was reproduced by the “Committee of Five” and distributed to various newspapers and military commanders. These copies, known as the “Dunlap broadsides,” were initially numerous, but only 26 have survived and are now displayed in museums and libraries.
3. George Washington’s reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 9, 1776, led to a riot in New York City, resulting in the tearing down of a statue of King George III. When one of the “Dunlap broadsides” arrived in New York City, Washington read it to the crowd, igniting their excitement and prompting the demolition of the statue. Interestingly, the statue was melted down to create musket balls for the American army.
4. During World War II, the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and other important documents were secretly stored at Fort Knox. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, these priceless documents were transferred to Fort Knox, away from the threat of war. They were kept hidden alongside other historical artifacts like Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and the Gutenberg Bible.
5. Although 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence, not all of them became famous figures. While names like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson went on to serve as presidents, many signers have been forgotten by history. For example, Button Gwinnett of Georgia and Josiah Bartlett of New Hampshire are less well-known.
6. The Fourth of July wasn’t recognized as a federal holiday until 1870. Despite celebrations taking place for years, it wasn’t until 1870 that it became an unpaid federal holiday. In 1941, it was finally recognized as a paid holiday for federal employees.
7. The first Fourth of July fireworks took place in 1777. The tradition of lighting fireworks on the Fourth of July began in Philadelphia and Boston in 1777. Since then, it has become a popular tradition across the country, with spectacular firework displays taking place in various cities.
8. The oldest Fourth of July parade in the United States is held in Bristol, Rhode Island. The first-ever Bristol Fourth of July parade took place in 1785, making it the longest-running parade in the country.
So, as you enjoy your holiday festivities, remember the history and significance of the Fourth of July. It is a day to commemorate the birth of the nation and honor the vision and sacrifices of those who came before us.
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