America’s Independence Day
On the 4th day of July, Americans celebrate Independence Day. It is an annual reminder of the day The United States Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress (in 1776), announcing that the thirteen American colonies then at war with Great Britain were no longer a part of the British Empire. Every year we celebrate we fireworks, cookouts and fun.
Fact #1 - In 1791 was the first recorded use of the name “Independence Day”.
Just a decade or so after the end of the American Revolution, citizens of the United States were calling the 4th day in July “Independence Day”. You have to respect the patriotism Americans had back then. They had just got done fighting a war for their freedom and were very respectful of what they earned.
Fact #2 - The Fourth of July was declared a legal holiday in 1941.
This means most Americans don’t have to go to work or school. Banks and other federal offices are all closed. It’s a day to relax and celebrate our freedom.
Fact #3 - Americans celebrate Independence Day with a barrage of fireworks. Every city will hold a celebration.
Some of the largest firework displays are held over Washington D.C., Boston and New York City. You can hear the boom of an explosion from miles away. People often say “Celebrate your nations birth by blowing up a small portion of it.”
Fact #4 - Independence Day fireworks are often accompanied by patriotic songs.
Some of the songs you might hear during a fireworks spectacle include the national anthem (”The Star-Spangled Banner”), “God Bless America”, “America the Beautiful”, “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee”, “This Land Is Your Land”, “Stars and Stripes Forever”, and, regionally, “Yankee Doodle” in northeastern states and “Dixie” in southern states.