Independence Day

Did you know …

The Revolutionary War started in April of 1775, over a year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

At first, many colonists didn’t want complete freedom.

When General George Washington and the Colonial Army began fighting for freedom in 1775, many colonists didn’t want complete freedom from England.

Continental Congress meets in June, 1776

Attitudes were changing by the time the Continental Congress met in June, 1776. They asked Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Roger Sherman, Benjamin Franklin, and Robert R. Livingston to write a formal document.

Declaration of Independence

Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. It gave England the reasons the colonies wanted their freedom.

Continental Congress Votes on July 2, 1776

The Continental Congress delegates considered the declaration carefully. They knew England wouldn’t be happy to read it. Voting for freedom could mean prison or death. They voted for it anyway.

July 4, 1776

Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, making that day the birth of our country’s independence.

Early celebrations

The colonists celebrated the anniversary of our independence every year with bonfires, concerts, and parades.

The Declaration of Independence was read to crowds. They fired muskets. Cannons boomed in celebration.

Legal Holiday

July 4th is a legal holiday. Today we celebrate the day with family picnics and fireworks.  

 

-Sandra Merville Hart

Resources

Burnett, Bernice. Holidays, Franklin Watts, Inc., 1983.

“July 4th,” A&E Television Networks, 2016/01/24 http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/july-4th.