John Adams, the second President of the United States, had written to his wife when the resolution of independace was approved in a closed session of Congress:
The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch 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 shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
The Presidents sentiment caught on but July 4th became the day for celebration. July 4, 1776 is when the Declaration of Independence, a concept initially written by Thomas Jefferson explaining the decision declaring the United States independent from Great Britain was approved. The interesting twist, most historians have concluded that the Declaration was signed nearly a month after its adoption, on August 2, 1776, and not on July 4 as is commonly believed.
Today, Independence Day has come to mean so much more but is still celebrated with pomp and parade, fireworks and a whole lot of red, white and blue. We hope you enjoy celebrating your 4th of July with family, friends and pride for the U.S.A.!