The 4th of July, also known as Independence Day, is a beloved American holiday celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This document declared the 13 American colonies free from British rule. Today, July 4th is marked by parades, parties, fireworks, and family gatherings. There are also many fascinating and little-known facts about the history and traditions of this star-spangled celebration. Keep reading for a roundup of fun facts about the 4th of July!
History of July 4th/Independence Day
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence is the famous document declaring America's independence from Great Britain. The Continental Congress adopted the declaration on July 4, 1776. However, John Hancock was the only person to sign the document on that day - the other 55 delegates signed over the next month. The declaration was primarily written by Thomas Jefferson and establishes the values and principles behind American independence.
Early celebrations
The first organized Independence Day celebrations took place the following year in 1777. In Bristol, Rhode Island, there was a salute with 13 gunshots in the morning and evening of July 4th. In 1778, George Washington issued his troops a double ration of rum to celebrate. The first recorded music commemorating independence was the “Psalm of Joy” hymn published in 1777.
Modern 4th of July Traditions
Fireworks
Fireworks have been a part of Independence Day celebrations for centuries. The day is now marked with impressive pyrotechnic displays and fireworks shows across the country. Major displays include the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks over the East River in New York City and the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular concert. Backyard fireworks are also a popular 4th of July tradition.
Barbecues and picnics
July 4th is prime grilling season, making barbecues and outdoor picnics a staple Independence Day activity. From hamburgers and hot dogs to ribs, steaks, and all the classic sides, 4th of July is a foodie’s dream. Red, white and blue desserts are also popular, including star-spangled berry trifles and patriotic cake pops.
Parades
Patriotic parades have marched through towns across the United States for over a century on the 4th of July. Large scale parades are held in many major cities, often with military involvement and floats representing important moments in American history. Marching bands, dancers, classic cars, and other local groups often participate as well.
Patriotic decorations
Homes, businesses, and streets are decorated in red, white and blue for the 4th of July. Patriotic wreaths, garlands, balloons, and table settings are common decorations. Flags and banners are also displayed to celebrate, especially American flags and “Stars and Stripes” motifs. Many towns and cities hold home decoration contests honoring the most festively embellished houses.
Fun Facts About July 4th
Hot dog eating contests
The annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest held in Coney Island, NY has become a quirky tradition. First held in 1916, it determines who can eat the most hot dogs in 10 minutes. Joey Chestnut holds the men’s record of eating 74 hot dogs! Miki Sudo holds the women’s record of eating 48.5 hot dogs. The contest typically draws large crowds in person and on TV.
The Liberty Bell and crack
The iconic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia cracked the first time it was rung after arriving in the city in 1753. Despite the crack, the 2,000 pound bell was used periodically for over 90 years. It acquired the name Liberty Bell and became a symbol for abolitionists in the early 19th century. To this day, it still cracks me up that the Liberty Bell was cracked from the start!
The National Anthem
Francis Scott Key wrote the poem “Defence of Fort M'Henry” in 1814 after witnessing the fort survive British bombardment in the Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812. In 1931 this poem became the National Anthem as “The Star-Spangled Banner.” So when we hear the anthem today, we’re celebrating a poem inspired by the resilience of a fort back in the early 1800s.
The Declaration of Independence was not actually signed on July 4th
As mentioned earlier, despite being dated July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was not actually signed by most delegates until August 2nd of that year. So when John Adams predicted that future generations would celebrate July 2nd as Independence Day, he wasn’t too far off!
Three presidents died on July 4th
In an odd coincidence, three Founding Father presidents died on the 4th of July. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both passed away on July 4, 1826 - the 50th anniversary of independence. Five years later, James Monroe died on July 4, 1831. July 4, 1826 was definitely an intense day, with two presidents dying just hours apart!
FAQs
Q: What day was the Declaration of Independence actually signed?
A: While the Declaration of Independence was dated and approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, it was not fully signed by most delegates until August 2, 1776. Only John Hancock signed it on July 4th that year.
Q: Where was the first July 4th celebration held?
A: The first organized Independence Day celebration was held in Bristol, Rhode Island in 1777. This included a 13 gun salute in the morning and evening to commemorate the 13 colonies.
Q: How many people live in the US today compared to 1776?
A: There were around 2.5 million people living in the 13 colonies in 1776 around the time of the Declaration of Independence. Today, there are over 328 million people living in the United States.
Q: When did the Liberty Bell crack?
A: The Liberty Bell cracked the very first time it was rung after arriving in Philadelphia in 1753. The 2,000 pound bell continued to be used periodically for another 90 years despite the crack.
Q: Who holds the record for hot dog eating?
A: Joey Chestnut holds the men's record, eating 74 hot dogs in 10 minutes at the 2022 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. Miki Sudo holds the women's record of 48.5 hot dogs in 10 minutes, set in 2020.
Conclusion
Independence Day is chock-full of surprising and fascinating facts that most people don’t know. As you celebrate July 4th this year with fireworks, BBQs, and star-spangled fun, keep some of these fun facts in mind! From the Liberty Bell’s early crack to the three presidents who died on July 4th, the quirky history and traditions of this patriotic holiday are what make it so special each year. July 4th is much more than just a day off - it commemorates America’s revolutionary birth and continued journey as a nation.
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