US INDEPENDENCE DAY 2024: 4TH JULY US HOLIDAY HISTORY, SIGNIFICANCE AND FACTS

US Independence Day 2024: Every year on July 4, US Independence Day is celebrated to honour the country's freedom. This special day, which is also observed as the ‘Fourth of July,’ commemorates the liberation of thirteen American colonies from British domination. On July 4 of this year, the USA will celebrate its 248th anniversary of independence. From its interesting history, significance and facts, know everything about this US holiday.

US Independence Day 2024 History

The Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, announcing the colonies' break from Great Britain. This date is celebrated as US Independence Day. According to the Library of Congress, Philadelphia celebrated its freedom with considerable fanfare a year later. In commemoration of American freedom, the Fourth of July has been a public holiday in the US since 1941.

US Independence Day 2024 (Image Credits: Canva)

US Independence Day 2024 Significance

The US Independence Day is celebrated by hosting numerous events, concerts, fireworks, carnivals, barbecues, lighting, and family get-togethers. In addition, several public and private gatherings are arranged to honour American history, culture, and customs. 

This historic occasion serves as a potent emblem of the nation's freedom and independence. It stands for American ideals, which respect individual liberty and adjust human nature to fit the natural course of events over time.

Facts About 4th July

US Independence Day is marked as a Federal holiday and commemorates the liberation of America from British rule. 

On the 4th of July, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which was largely written by Jefferson. The festivities of the day include concerts, bonfires, parades and the firing of cannons and muskets usually accompanied by the first public readings of the declaration of Independence. 

US Independence Day 2024 (Image Credits: Canva)

Three presidents died on July 4 including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe. 

John Adams believed that American independence should be celebrated on July 2, as that was the actual day the Continental Congress voted for independence in 1776. 

In observance of the original 13 colonies, descendants of the Declaration of Independence signatories touched the Liberty Bell thirteen times on July 4.

Over the years, the political importance of the holiday declined, but Independence Day remained an integral national holiday and a pivotal symbol of patriotism.