Independence Day, or the Fourth of July, commemorates the day in 1776 when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. This historic document announced the 13 American colonies’ separation from Great Britain. It was drafted by Thomas Jefferson and established the United States of America.
The push for independence actually began two days prior, on July 2, 1776, when Congress voted in favor of Virginian Richard Henry Lee’s motion for separation from the British Crown. However, it was the formal adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4 that was recorded in the history books and celebrated as America’s birthday.
While we associate the date with the signatures of the Founding Fathers, most delegates did not sign the famous parchment displayed at the National Archives until August 2, 1776.
Early Traditions and Celebrations
- Fireworks: The tradition of using fireworks started on July 4, 1777, during spontaneous celebrations in Philadelphia and Boston. It featured a 13-gun salute in honor of the original colonies and a grand exhibition of rockets.
- National Holiday: July 4th was not immediately a paid federal holiday. It was first recognized as a holiday by Congress in 1870 for federal employees in Washington, D.C., and was expanded into a paid federal holiday for all federal workers in 1938.
A Day of Reflection
Rich Dafter is the founder of HowToBeFit.com, a lifelong runner, former ACE Certified Personal Trainer, BODi Coach since 2007, and Polar Athlete and Ambassador for 39 years. At 75, he continues to run, hike, strength train, and share practical strategies for healthy aging, fitness, and longevity. Learn more about Rich Dafter on the About page.
