The History of the 4th of July and Why We Celebrate It
Your complete guide to the 4th of July
The 4th of July (also known as Independence Day) is an American holiday celebrated on July 4th annually. The 4th of July falls on a Sunday this year, which means it will be observed on Monday, July 5th—giving many Americans a three-day holiday weekend! While you’re thinking of fun 4th of July ideas for this year’s celebration (like planning a trip to see the best fireworks), you may wonder about the 4th of July’s history and its meaning to this nation. Why do we celebrate it each year? Well, don’t worry—we’re breaking it down for you with this 4th of July guide. Read on to learn why we celebrate Independence Day, its history, and what you can do to celebrate this important national holiday.
Why do we celebrate the 4th of July?
You may wonder, “Why do we celebrate the 4th of July? What does it mean?” Well, this day is incredibly significant in American history, as it marks the day the United States officially became its own nation. The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4th, 1776—and thus, America was born. American citizens celebrate America’s birthday with festivals, parades, fireworks, barbecues, fireworks, sparklers, and other festive activities.
4th of July history: From colonies to country
In order to fully understand the significance of Independence Day and what happened in 1776, we need to go back in history a bit. Before America was its own country, it was comprised of 13 colonies established by Great Britain. The first colony was settled in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607. European countries, especially Great Britain, continued to colonize America throughout the 17th century and a good portion of the 18th century. By 1775, an estimated 2.5 million settlers lived in the 13 colonies: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Tensions starting brewing when Great Britain began passing legislation that gave it more control within the colonies, especially when it came to taxing the colonists. The Crown was in debt after the French and Indian War, so it started taxing the American colonies to increase revenues. The passage of legislation including the Stamp Act in March 1765, the Townshend Acts in June and July of 1767, and the Tea Act of 1773 forced colonists to pay more money to Great Britain—even though the colonies didn’t have a say in the Crown’s policies. This became known as taxation without representation and quickly became a heated pillar in the foundation of the American Revolution.
Events such as the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party further escalated tensions between British occupiers and American colonists. Those tensions exploded in April 1775 when the Battles of Lexington and Concord broke out in Massachusetts as British forces attempted to confiscate weapons from the colonists. It was the first time colonial militias battled British troops, and thus, the American Revolutionary War began.
Fast-forward to a June 1776 Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia. Here, Virginia statesman Richard Henry Lee proposed a motion for the colonies to declare independence from Britain. A committee was formed to draft an official independence document, which became known as the Declaration of Independence. On July 2nd, 1776, Lee’s motion for independence was approved. Two days later, on July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted—and America became a free nation. Here are more Declaration of Independence facts that may surprise you—even if you’re a history buff. After declaring independence, America continued to fight in the Revolutionary War and officially defeated Great Britain in September 1783.
RELATED: The Difference Between the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution
Interesting 4th of July facts every American should know
The history of the 4th of July is incredibly interesting, but there are other interesting 4th of July facts every American should know. Here are six interesting ones to take note of:
Some colonists celebrated Independence Day during the summer of 1776 by putting on mock funerals for King George III of England—symbolizing the death of the Crown’s rule on America.
The first annual commemoration of Independence Day happened on July 4, 1777, in Philadelphia.
John Adams, a Founding Father and the second president of the United States, strongly believed Independence Day should be celebrated on July 2nd. He even refused to attend 4th of July events because he felt so strongly about July 2nd being the correct date.
Adams, along with Thomas Jefferson, another Founding Father, both died on July 4th, 1826. James Monroe, another U.S. president, also died on July 4th, but he passed in 1831.
Thomas Jefferson was the first president to celebrate Independence Day at the White House in 1801. The celebration featured horse races, parades, food, and drinks—similar to the 4th of July celebrations we see today.
Although the 4th of July was celebrated each year since 1776, it didn’t become a federal holiday until 1870. And it didn’t become a paid holiday for federal employees until 1941.
You can really impress your loved ones by breaking out this 4th of July trivia at the barbecue.
4th of July traditions: Fireworks, barbecues, and more
Many modern Independence Day traditions stem from America’s early independence celebrations. People would attend bonfires, concerts, and parades to celebrate their new nation. It was also common for the Declaration of Independence to be read aloud, followed by muskets and cannons firing. It’s safe to say the earliest Americans celebrated the 4th of July loudly and proudly.
Over time, those traditions evolved and became the Independence Day traditions we know today. Let’s take a look at these 4th of July traditions (and don’t forget to include them while planning your celebration).
4th of July fireworks—Whether you buy your own fireworks or watch a local fireworks display, lighting fireworks is a long-standing tradition for Americans on the 4th of July. Many people love to celebrate Independence Day with a bang!
4th of July sparklers—These hand-held fireworks are family favorites during the 4th of July. The colored flames and sparks help light up the area on America’s birthday.
4th of July barbecues—What’s a 4th of July celebration without a barbecue? Many Americans host or attend barbecues on Independence Day. Hot dogs and hamburgers are staples of these barbecues, along with picnic sides, fruit, and yummy desserts. You may also see baked beans at these barbecues—here’s a great baked beans recipe you can whip up for the celebration.
Backyard celebrations—You can’t have a barbecue without some backyard fun! Many people compete in backyard games while celebrating America’s independence (patriotic cornhole, anyone?). If the barbecue gets rained out, don’t worry—there are plenty of 4th of July games to play indoors, too.
4th of July parades—The community gathers to march in the streets to celebrate Independence Day. You’ll see floats, music, and a whole lot of red, white, and blue! 4th of July parades can also be followed by festivals, carnivals, or fairs that provide yummy food, fun rides, and other family-friendly activities.
Wearing red, white, and blue—Every heart beats true under red, white, and blue! Wearing the colors of the American flag is another 4th of July tradition many people participate in.
Creating patriotic crafts—This activity is perfect for the DIY-er looking to deck out their home for Independence Day or for kids at a barbecue. People love creating 4th of July crafts to honor America’s birthday, from flag-themed decorations to red, white, and blue pinwheels.
Waving mini American flags—What better way to celebrate America’s birthday than to wave the flag? Some people wave the flag in their yards, but others wave mini American flags to celebrate—especially at parades and festivals. Don’t be surprised if you see many American flag photos being taken on Independence Day.
4th of July travel—Many Americans plan getaways to celebrate Independence Day. They tend to head to the lake or ocean, or go camping, to have some fun in honor of America. If you’re looking to plan a trip, you can’t go wrong with these 4th of July weekend getaways.
Shopping—Let freedom ring, and the savings begin! People love shopping 4th of July sales—and with great deals on items like mattresses, furniture, and appliances, they’ll save some serious cash.
The 4th of July is a holiday Americans hold near and dear to their hearts. It marks the day America became the country it is today—a country where people have a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. On this day, we remember the United States’ fight for freedom and celebrate our country with friends, family, food, and fun. Happy birthday, USA!
RELATED: I’m a Black American—Here’s Why I Don’t Celebrate 4th of July
Sources:
America’s Library: “Colonial America (1492-1763)”
History.com: “The 13 Colonies”
History.com: “7 Events That Enraged Colonists and Led to the American Revolution”
Military.com: “The History of the Fourth of July”
History.com: “Fourth of July—Independence Day”
History.com: “On This Day In History: Delegates sign Declaration of Independence”
National Hot Dog and Sausage Council: “This July is Bound to Be a Wiener”
The White House Historical Association: “The First Fourth of July Celebration at the President’s House”
15 Patriotic Movies to Watch on the Fourth of July
Who Has the Most Valuable Signature on the Declaration of Independence? (It’s Not Who You Think)
20 Festive Fourth of July Appetizers
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