REFRESH YOUR MEMORY: THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in the history of the United States. It was an official act taken by all 13 American colonies in declaring independence from British rule.
The document was originally written by Thomas Jefferson, but Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Jefferson then worked together to make changes. The final draft of the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, but the actual signing of the final document took place on August 2, 1776.
HOW DID OUR FOUNDERS ENVISION INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS?
John Adams considered July 2 the day when Americans declared their independence.
He envisioned the celebration to be one filled with fun, games, and fireworks, not one showing off military strength (as one might expect). On July 3, 1776, he wrote these words to his wife Abigail, capturing the spirit of the times:
“Yesterday the greatest Question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater, perhaps, never was or will be decided among Men. A Resolution was passed without one dissenting Colony ‘that these united Colonies, are, and of right ought to be free and independent States, and as such, they have, and of Right ought to have full Power to make War, conclude Peace, establish Commerce, and to do all the other Acts and Things, which other States might rightfully do…’
The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival… . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
Our 4th of July festivities may look a little different this year, as we celebrate the 244th day of Independence for our great nation, but we can still make it a festive and most memorable occasion. We hope you’ll visit the link below for ideas on ways to make your 4th of July extra special in 2020!