Why Do We Celebrate the 4th of July?

The anticipation for the 4th of July celebration has begun. It's the time of the summer when all the Americans get ready for a spectacular display of fireworks, lively parades, vibrant American flags, and, most importantly, delectable barbeque parties. However, have you ever wondered why we commemorate this day? If yes, then we will explore everything related to the 4th of July. Keep on reading.

4th Of July, The Independence Day Of America 

It was the day of 4th July of 1776, when America got its Independence from the British Empire after 246 years of continuous efforts. With time, the day has evolved into a broader demonstration of patriotism and pride.

 It is the day when people in the United States love to enjoy fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches, and ceremonies. 

All of the events on this day, even the smallest event like a family union, include the colors of the national flag to show their pride for this great nation and celebrate the country's history, government, and traditions. 

It's a special day for Americans, their national day. Often you will see people wearing red and blue t-shirts and caps and holding mini American flags while hosting the parties on this day. We think it's a crazy but unique way for Americans to admire and appreciate this country.

All Government offices and schools are closed as, of course, not only is it a federal holiday but also a big day for Americans. While the American transit systems are great at keeping a timetable on the other days, usually on the 4th of July, they may not adhere to their regular schedules. 

Background: How Did Independence Day Marked On the 4th Of July 

July 4th is a federal holiday and the USA's independence day. All along with everything else, like fireworks, parties, and parades, it is the most important time when every American expresses gratitude for the freedom and liberties won by their forefathers. 

So, how did we get here? Getting freedom has never been easy, not only for the USA and even not for any other country. Freedom involves sacrificing many people who have fought till their last drop of blood. Therefore on this day, we all should stretch back to the historical roots of our freedom and remember everyone involved in making this nation what it is now. 

Contrary to most beliefs, the legal alienation of the thirteen colonies from Great Britain in 1776 happened on July 2, not July 4th. It occurred when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of Independence proposed by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia, declaring the United States independent from Great Britain's rule. 

After this voting, Continental Congress turned its attention to the Declaration of Independence, prepared by the Committee of Five, with Thomas Jefferson as its principal author. 

Two days later, on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence with some changes, as stated by the National Archives. 

Only two delegates, Charles Thompson and John Hancock, the secretary, and president, signed the document on July 4. The document we now know as the Declaration of Independence, with 56 delegate signatures inscribed on parchment paper, received its signatures on August 2, 1776. 

Very few people know that John Adams initially predicted that the celebration of Independence would happen on July 2 every year, marking the anniversary of the vote for Independence, not the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. However, as we all know, his prediction was off by two days!

So, When Did We Start To Celebrate The 4Th Of July?

What if we tell you that the first 4th of July celebrations consisted of funerals? Surprising? It's actually true. The first celebrations involved the mock funeral for King George III, who reigned over England. Maybe it was the way for Americans to tell Brits: "Stay away now. We have had enough! "

In later years, the celebration started to take its shape and become intricate, yet not widespread as today. It was until 1777 that Americans got their reason to celebrate Independence Day. In 1777, 

Philadelphia cannons lit up the sky, firing 13 times to represent the 13 original colonies. On the very same night, the Sons of Liberty put on a fireworks show in Boston.

After the popular War of 1812, Independence Day celebration events grew in popularity due to the rising prominence of the holiday. Finally, the United States declared the 4th of July a holiday. Then in 1941, the day was labeled a paid federal holiday, which is true to this day. 

As the holiday gained popularity, people started celebrating it with more elaborate and common practices, forming new traditions.

Fun Facts About The 4th Of July 

• Hot dogs are the stars of the 4th of July. It is one of the biggest hot dog consumption days in the United States. According to estimates, Americans consume around 150 million hot dogs on Independence Day. The tradition of eating hot dogs on this day has its roots back to the early 20th century.

• The Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has yet to receive a ring since February 23, 1846. The bell, which weighs about 2,080 pounds, symbolizes American Independence. It is now displayed in the Liberty Bell Center for visitors to see.

• Three U.S. Presidents, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe, all died on July 4th. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died on the same day in 1826, exactly 50 years after the adoption of the declaration.

• American consider Fireworks an important part of Independence Day celebrations since the very beginning. The first fireworks display took place on July 4, 1777, in Philadelphia, one year after the delegates signed the Declaration of Independence. Today, fireworks make up a central part of the 4th of July festivities across the country, and people from all over the world come to see them in America.

Wrapping Up! 

Falling in mid-summer, the Fourth of July is an important day for Americans to celebrate their Independence. Why do we celebrate this day? Because it lets us show our patriotism as Americans. While every American has their own way of celebrating love for their country, some things remain common: fireworks and events. Yes, the celebration has evolved since 1777, but its meaning has remained the same. With that, we want to say happy independence day USA. This year makes the celebration more special for the sports fan by sending their favorite sports collectable LEGO sets as a gift from WOF Sports. The LEGO is back in trend for this summer and we host a myriad range for every collectable sole out there. Thank you for reading! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is July 4th celebrated?

It marks America's Independence from British rule.

How is Independence Day celebrated in the U.S.?

Americans celebrate the 4th of July with parades, fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings.

What is the significance of the Declaration of Independence?

It declared the American colonies' Independence and formed the basis for the United States.

Who signed the Declaration of Independence?

Various founding fathers, including Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.

How old is the tradition of celebrating July 4th?

It dates back to the first celebration in 1777, one year after the declaration was signed.

How many people signed the Declaration of Independence?

A total of 56 delegates signed the Declaration of Independence.

Is July 4th a national holiday in the United States?

Yes, July 4th is a national holiday known as Independence Day.

Can non-Americans celebrate Independence Day?

Yes, people from all nationalities can join in the celebration and enjoy the festivities of Independence Day in the United States.

Do you know what people usually do on Independence Day? 

Well, they usually enjoy fireworks, parades, and barbecues, but did you know that gift-giving is also a popular activity? If you're looking for a unique gift to surprise your friends or family members, WOF Sports has got you covered! We offer America's most famous collectibles, LEGO sets. From Baby Yoda to the City Space Lunar Space Station LEGO set, we have everything you need to enhance your loved ones' collections.