Stars, Stripes, and Celebrations: All About America’s 4th of July!
Have you ever wondered why people in the United States light up the sky with fireworks every year on July 4th? This day is a huge celebration called Independence Day, or the Fourth of July! Let’s dive into why it’s important and how Americans celebrate.
What’s the Reason for the Season?
The 4th of July marks the day the United States declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776. Think of it like Argentina’s Declaration of Independence on July 9th, 1816! This document, the Declaration of Independence, explained why the thirteen colonies wanted to be their own country. It talked about freedom and the idea that all people are created equal.
Celebrating Freedom
On the 4th of July, Americans come together to celebrate their independence and national pride. There are parades with marching bands and floats, delicious barbecues with grilled food and hamburgers, and OF COURSE, fireworks displays that light up the night sky! People wear red, white, and blue, the colors of the American flag. It’s a festive time to be in the U.S.!
Now, some of those #FunFacts I love so much!
-The Liberty Bell, a famous symbol of American independence, is actually cracked!
-In 1814, during the War of 1812, British forces actually attacked Washington D.C. on July 4th! Luckily, the Americans were able to successfully defend the city.
-William Howard Taft, the 27th president, got stuck in the White House bathtub on July 4th, 1909. Apparently, they had to remove part of the tub to get him out! (Maybe that’s why there are no bathtubs in the White House anymore?)
-Nobody knows for sure who wrote the melody for “The Star-Spangled Banner,” America’s national anthem. The music was originally a popular British drinking song! (Pilgrims took drinking VERY seriously…)
-To celebrate the second anniversary of Independence in 1778, General George Washington issued a double ration of rum to his soldiers. Now that’s a way to get the party started! (See? Told ya…)
-There’s a tiny picture of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on the back of a $2 bill! (And YES, 2 dollar bills actually exist. Get one! It’s for good luck)
Want to Learn More?
If you’re interested in learning more about American Independence Day, here are some recommendations:
Movies:
-“The Patriot” (historical fiction about the Revolutionary War)
-“National Treasure” (adventure film with a hidden treasure linked to the Declaration of Independence)
Short Stories:
-“The Devil and Tom Walker [Available here]” by Washington Irving (a classic short story set during the American Revolution)
-“I Hear America Singing [Click here to read]” by Walt Whitman (a famous poem about American diversity.)
– Georgi 💛