On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee proposed a resolution to the Continental Congress stating that "these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States." Four days later Congress appointed a committee to draft a declaration embodying the intent of the resolution. The committee, consisting of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston, pressed on Jefferson the task of writing their report. On June 28 the committee submitted to Congress "A Declaration by the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress Assembled."

The first official Fourth of July celebration, as affirmed by a legislative act, occurred in Massachusetts in 1781. By the mid 1800s, it became a United States custom to commemorate Independence Day in states and territories. Today, by parades, picnics and fireworks our country's fight for freedom is honoured.

Parades, which usually begin mid-morning, are the first tradition followed each Fourth of July. The small-town parade, with baseball teams, baton twirlers and the high school marching band, is a common sight in cities across the country. After the parade, folks usually head home or to a relative's house for a family reunion or get-together. Fireworks are one of the oldest and most stunning ways to commemorate America's birthday. Frequently the nation's colors—red, white and blue—are used in these spectacular displays of patriotism. Most large cities in the United States have at least one, if not several, fireworks displays on the night of the Fourth. Fireworks are a remarkable and satisfying conclusion to the Fourth of July holiday.

Related Links