Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday celebrated in the United States on July 4th every year. This holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which declared the United States as a free and independent nation.
Here are 10 facts about USA Independence Day that you might not know.
The Declaration of Independence Wasn’t Actually Signed on July 4th
Contrary to popular belief, the Declaration of Independence was not signed on July 4th. The Continental Congress approved the document on that date, but most of the signers didn’t add their signatures until August 2nd.
- July 4th Wasn’t Always a Federal Holiday
Independence Day was not declared a federal holiday until 1870, almost 100 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed.
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The First Fourth of July Celebration Was Held in 1777
The first official celebration of Independence Day was held in Philadelphia in 1777. The celebration included a parade, fireworks, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
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John Adams Predicted the Importance of July 4th
In a letter to his wife, Abigail, John Adams predicted that July 4th would become an important holiday for Americans. He wrote, “It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.”
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The Original Declaration of Independence Is Preserved in Washington, D.C.
The original Declaration of Independence is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C., along with other important historical documents like the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
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The Fourth of July is the Biggest Hot Dog Day of the Year
According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs on the Fourth of July, making it the biggest hot dog day of the year.
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The White House Hosts a Fourth of July Party Every Year
The White House has hosted a Fourth of July celebration every year since 1801, when Thomas Jefferson was president.
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The Liberty Bell Hasn’t Rung Since 1846
The Liberty Bell, which is a symbol of American independence, hasn’t rung since 1846. Today, it is housed in a glass pavilion in Philadelphia, where visitors can view it up close.
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The Fourth of July Is Celebrated Around the World
Although Independence Day is a uniquely American holiday, it is celebrated in other parts of the world as well. American expats and tourists often gather together to celebrate the holiday, and some countries even hold their own Fourth of July celebrations.
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The Fourth of July Marks the Midpoint of Summer
For many Americans, the Fourth of July marks the midpoint of summer. It is a time to enjoy the warm weather, spend time with family and friends, and celebrate the freedom and independence that make America great.
In conclusion, Independence Day is an important holiday that celebrates the birth of the United States as a free and independent nation. From hot dogs to fireworks to historical documents, there are many interesting facts and traditions associated with this holiday. So, the next time you celebrate the Fourth of July, remember these fun facts and appreciate the significance of this special day.
