Understanding the significance of the 4th of July: Exploring the meaning behind US Independence Day

What is the 4th of July?

Meaning behind US Independence Day explained, what it marks and how it’s celebrated

Each year, the Fourth of July is celebrated as a major holiday in the United States. This day is marked by various activities, including fireworks, parades, barbecues, concerts, and gatherings with family and loved ones. It is also a federal holiday, resulting in the closure of non-essential federal government offices and paid leave for federal employees.

The Fourth of July commemorates the Declaration of Independence of the United States, which was signed by Congress on July 4, 1776.

What is the meaning of 4th of July?

Independence Day explained

The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, symbolizes the US’s independence from Britain. During the 18th century, a significant portion of the North American continent, known as the Thirteen Colonies, was under British rule. The colonies desired to break free from the rule of King George III, leading to the proposal for independence.

On July 2, 1776, the representatives from the colonies, known as Congress, voted in favor of independence. However, the process of revising the Declaration of Independence to reflect this significant change was not completed by that date. The document was initially drafted by Thomas Jefferson, a future president, in consultation with John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and William Livingston. It was eventually signed on July 4, 1776.

John Adams, who would later become the second president of the United States, expressed his belief that July 2nd would be celebrated as the great anniversary festival, stating, “The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America.” Nonetheless, it has always been the fourth day of July that has been celebrated, as that is the date that appears on the declaration.

Historians have debated whether the members of Congress actually signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, despite later claims made by Jefferson, Adams, and Franklin. Many believe that the document was actually signed into law a month later, on August 2nd. It is worth noting that both Jefferson and Adams passed away on July 4, 1826, which marked the 50th anniversary of the declaration.

How is Independence Day celebrated today?

In the early days of Independence, the Fourth of July was primarily marked by political parades and speeches. Over time, it has evolved into a patriotic tradition, with various groups taking part in the celebration. John Adams famously wrote in a letter to his wife that the day “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 forever more.”

Modern Fourth of July celebrations often consist of fireworks, parades, patriotic music, and barbecues. Decorations in the red, white, and blue colors of the American flag can be seen in towns and cities across the US during this period. At noon, a salute called a “salute to the union” is fired by any capable military base, with one gun representing each state in the US.

However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all individuals wish to celebrate American nationhood. While the Declaration of Independence proclaimed equality and rights to all, subsequent laws did not extend to black people, women, or Native Americans. The ongoing issues of police brutality, regressive policies affecting women and LGBTQ+ rights, and hostility towards migrants have caused many minority groups to reflect on the progress made since 1776 and question whether the concept of the Land of the Free includes them.

Keywords: Patriotism, US Independence Day, 4th of July, significance, meaning, history, celebration, American culture, fireworks, national holiday