The 4th of July (also known as Independence Day) is an American holiday that is celebrated every year.

The holiday this year falls on a Monday, 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, great discount shopping, or sharing meaningful quotes on social media), you might be wondering about the story of the 4th of July and the meaning for this nation. Why is it celebrated every year? Well, don’t worry – we’re breaking it down for you with this 4th of July guide.

Why is the 4th of July celebrated? From which country did they declare independence?

America declared its independence from Great Britain. To fully understand the significance of Independence Day and what happened in 1776, we need to go back a bit in history. Before America was its own country, it consisted 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 the Americas throughout the 17th century and much of the 18th century. By 1775, about 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.

What prompted the colonists to seek independence?

Tensions began to rise as Great Britain began passing legislation that gave it more control within the colonies, particularly when it came to taxing the settlers. The Crown was in debt after the French and Indian War, so it began taxing the American colonies to raise revenue. The passing of legislation such as the Stamp Act in March 1765, the Townshend Acts in June and July 1767, and the Tea Act of 1773 forced the colonists to pay more money to Great Britain – even though the colonies had no say in the Crown’s policies . This became known as taxation without representation and soon became a burning pillar in the foundation of the American Revolution.

Events such as the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party further escalated tensions between the British invaders and the American colonists. These tensions erupted in April 1775 when the Battles of Lexington and Concord broke out in Massachusetts as British forces attempted to confiscate arms from the colonists. It was the first time colonial militias fought British troops and thus began the American Revolutionary War.

What really happened on July 4, 1776?

At a June 1776 meeting of the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Virginia statesman Richard Henry Lee proposed a motion for the colonies to declare independence from Britain. A commission was formed to draft an official document of independence, which became known as the Declaration of Independence. On July 2, 1776, Lee’s motion for independence was approved. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted – and America became a free nation. After declaring independence, America continued to fight in the Revolutionary War and officially defeated Great Britain in September 1783.

Interesting 4th of July Facts Every American Should Know!

The history of the 4th of July is fascinating, but there are other interesting 4th of July facts that every American should know. Here are six notable ones:

Some colonists celebrated Independence Day in the summer of 1776 by holding mock funerals for King George III of England – symbolizing the death of Crown rule in America.

The first annual commemoration of Independence Day took place on July 4, 1777, in Philadelphia.

John Adams, founding father and second president of the United States, strongly believed that Independence Day should be celebrated on July 2. He even refused to participate in the July 4th events because he strongly felt that July 2nd was the right date.

Adams and Thomas Jefferson, another founding father, both died on July 4, 1826. James Monroe, another US president, also died on July 4, but in 1831.

Although July 4th has been celebrated every year since 1776, it didn’t become a federal holiday until 1870. And it didn’t become a federal employee payday until 1941.

4th of July Traditions: Fireworks, Barbecue and more…

Many modern Independence Day traditions stem from America’s early independence celebrations. People attended bonfires, concerts and parades to celebrate their new nation. It was also common for the Declaration of Independence to be read aloud, followed by the firing of muskets and cannons. It’s safe to say that the earliest Americans celebrated the 4th of July loud and proud.

Over time, those traditions evolved and became the Independence Day traditions we know today. Let’s take a look at these traditions of 4th of July (and don’t forget to include them when planning your celebration).

4th of July Fireworks –  Whether you buy fireworks or watch a local fireworks display, setting off fireworks is a long-standing tradition for Americans on the 4th of July. Many people want to celebrate Independence Day with a bang!

4th of July Sparklers – These handheld firecrackers are a family favorite during the 4th of July. Colorful flames and sparks help light up the area on America’s birthday.

4th of July BBQ. 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 cookouts, along with picnic sides, fruit, and delicious desserts. You can also see baked beans on these barbecues.

Backyard Parties – you can’t have a barbecue without some backyard fun! Many people compete in backyard games as they celebrate America’s independence.

4th of July Parade. The community gathers to march in the streets to celebrate Independence Day. You’ll see notes, music, and lots of red, white, and blue colors! Fourth of July parades can also be followed by festivals, carnivals, or fairs that offer delicious food, fun rides, and other family-friendly activities.

Creating patriotic crafts. This activity is perfect for DIYers looking to decorate their home for Independence Day, or for the kids at a barbecue. People love to create 4th of July crafts to honor America’s birthday, from flag-themed decorations to red, white, and blue pinwheels.

4th of July Trip – Many Americans plan “getaways” to celebrate Independence Day. They tend to go to the lake or the ocean, or go camping, to have 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 the freedom ring and the savings begin! People love to shop the 4th of July sales—and the great deals on items like mattresses, furniture, and appliances.

Happy birthday, USA!