Independence Day History and Why It’s a Big Deal for Americans

Independence Day, also known as the 4th of July, is a major holiday in America. It’s iconic because it features flags, hot dogs, and fireworks which are common symbols connected to the country.

But why is it such a big deal?

Well, it’s because it’s America’s birthday. It’s the date of a major historical event that affects America today.

What is the Reason for Independence Day?

Independence Day’s origins go all the way back to 1776! Though it wasn’t a federal holiday until 1941.

Americans finally gained independence away from Britain after the Revolutionary War. The newly formed Congress voted for independence, so representatives from the 13 colonies (which would eventually become states) gathered to sign the Declaration of Independence.

The document was written up by Thomas Jefferson, and the Declaration is still in effect today. The Declaration of Independence is such a big deal because it built the foundation of America.

What’s Included in the Declaration of Independence

If you aren’t familiar with the Declaration of Independence, then you may not understand its importance. Don’t worry, we won’t go into a full history lesson, we’ll be summarizing it.

Essentially the document says

• All men are created equal
• The American government can’t infringe on certain rights of Americans
• Americans should hold their government accountable if the government isn’t protecting their rights

Essentially, the focus was on what the government wanted America to be, and they created that vision by all the things they felt the British government did wrong.

Later the Bill of Rights was created as an addition to the Declaration, as a way to fill in blanks that appeared after the Declaration was written.

Fun Facts About Independence Day

1. John Adams believed that the true date of Independence Day should have been July 2nd when Congress voted for independence, and he boycotted any 4th of July activities.

2. Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died on July 4th, 1826.

3. One of the first Independence Day celebrations featured mock funerals of King George as a way to represent freedom from the monarchy.

4. Fireworks became part of the holiday just a year after it was established.

5. Hot dogs are the most popular meal on this holiday.

6. The White House didn’t host an Independence Day party until 1801.

7. The oldest Independence Day parade is in Rhode Island.

8. The state of Massachusetts was the first to make Independence Day a holiday.

9. Wearing the American flag actually breaks the U.S. Flag Code. The Code says: “The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery.” Of course, no one enforces this code.

Why Americans Celebrate Independence Day

Freedom and America go hand and hand. It’s unimaginable to not celebrate Independence Day in America. Americans love to use the day to celebrate all the things that make America a country. They also use it as a day to spend time with loved ones.

Americans overall are extremely patriotic. Around 65% of Americans own an American flag. To learn more about Americans, make sure to look at our American Market Guide.

Happy Birthday, America!

So that’s how America as a country was created. It’s amazing to think about how 13 small colonies turned into 50 states! Maybe even more amazing is the fact that a document created in 1776 is still helping run the country in 2022.

If you want to capitalize on this holiday, make sure to check out our Independence Day selling guide. It features product and marketing ideas.

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