Happy 4th of July, Happy Independence Day to my fellow Americans. We took a long weekend and traveled to see extended family. Personal fireworks are now illegal in many places, so we will celebrate with family, barbecue, beer and other alcoholic beverages. There will likely be a bonfire, jokes and lot's of laughter.
In the past it was considered a celebration of our freedoms, many American's feel our Freedom slipping away, so for me it is a celebration of some time off work and a chance to enjoy my extended family.
Yes, it is a pretty traditional celebration. The 4th is one of the few holidays I enjoy. Mostly because it is about gathering and having fun without a lot of expectations.
What are your plans?
On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on July 4th, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event.
Today is the fourth of July, a day of celebration for Americans at gaining their freedom and nationhood from the United Kingdom hundreds of years ago.It’ll be the 241st anniversary this year and celebrations are likely to include plenty of laughter, feasts and maybe a firework or two.Here is everything you need to know about the day, including how to celebrate it.
When is Independence Day?
Independence Day is always held on July 4 every year. It’s a fixed date.
What is Independence Day all about?
The date itself marks when the official Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and approved by the Continental Congress. This was a letter sent to King George III formally explaining why the 13 original colonies wanted to leave the British Empire and become a new nation. It was intended to justify a revolt against the British with a list of charges against King George III. The main issue was taxation and a lack of control over their affairs, and this declaration marked the beginning of war against the British.
The committee that drafted the declaration included Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin with the Congressional Committee having already agreed to separate from the United Kingdom two days earlier on July 2.
It also set out some American ideals – in particular “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”These days it is also a public holiday in the United States.