American Independence Day 2018: What is 4th of July, History and Celebrations
The Thirteen Colonies, which were a group of the British colonies, declared themselves to be a new nation, forming the United States of America.
The American Independence Day is also referred to as the Fourth of July. It is a very significant national holiday for the United States. The day marks the Declaration of Independence adopted on the 4th of July 1776. The Thirteen Colonies, which were a group of the British colonies, declared themselves to be a new nation, forming the United States of America. The Continental Congress had voted to declare their independence on July 2. The revolutionary war continued for some time. The Declaration of Independence is a historical document drafted by Thomas Jefferson.
History of the Independence Day:
The United States of America was made up of a collection of states on the East coast, collectively called the Thirteen Colonies. These included the states of Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts Bay, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. These colonies were run by the British, who had been exploiting them since 1587.
There were tensions between the Britishers and colonial residents over British laws and taxes. Eventually, colonists began to develop a need for own independence, and there was a growing hostility against the Britishers. As the revolutionary sentiments increased there was an increasing sense and need felt for nationalism. It gave rise to protests against the legislation of the British. The Sugar Act, The Tea Act were majorly responsible for the feelings of rising dissent.
The Continental Congress, consisting of delegates from the Thirteen Colonies declared a war of independence against Britain in the year 1775. A year later, the Declaration of Independence was signed. But the conflict continued for some years then.
Fourth of July Celebrations:
The birth of American independence is marked with festivities ranging from firework shows, parades and concerts. There are also more casual family gatherings and general celebrations. There are functions with speeches held across the States. Government officials take active involvement and make their statements. Earlier there were public readings of the Declaration of Independence. All the major cities have a firework show along with one at the White House. The day remains an important national holiday and a symbol of patriotism.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2018 12:17 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).