The 4th of July is a special day in the United States, a day of celebration, patriotism, and remembrance of our nation’s history. People across the country celebrate with fireworks, barbecues, and parades. But there’s more to the 4th of July than meets the eye. Here’s a look at ten surprising facts you may not know about this important holiday.
Three American Presidents Died on the 4th of July
While many Americans celebrate the 4th of July with barbecues and fireworks, it’s also a day that marks the passing of three American presidents. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died in 1826 – exactly 50 years after they signed the Declaration of Independence – while James Monroe passed away five years later in 1831.
Philadelphia Held the First Celebration
On July 8, 1777, Philadelphia held the nation’s first celebration of independence. It was a day-long affair comprising military drills, music, oratory, bell-ringing, and fireworks. This event has been commemorated in some form ever since and is now celebrated with parades, picnics, and gatherings nationwide.
The Liberty Bell Is Tapped 13 times
On July 4 every year, the descendants of the signers of the Declaration of Independence ceremoniously tap the Liberty Bell 13 times. This time-honored tradition is a respectful tribute to the original 13 colonies, symbolizing their pivotal role in shaping our nation’s history.
The Declaration of Independence Wasn’t on the 4th of July
The Continental Congress formally dated and adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. It is not the day the document was signed.
At the time, many of the signers were unsure whether they should sign the declaration because it could be seen as treason and punishable by death if the revolution failed. Nevertheless, all 56 co-signers eventually did sign the document, but it wasn’t until two months later, on August 2.
John Adams Predicted it Would be a Huge Celebration for Generations to Come
John Adams, one of the key figures in the independence movement, predicted that the Fourth of July would be celebrated with pomp and parades for many generations.
Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, on July 3, stating:
“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with ‘shows,’ games, sports, guns, bells,… bonfires and fireworks from one end of this continent to the other.”
Obama’s Daughter, Malia, Was Born on July 4
Barack Obama’s oldest daughter, Malia, was born on July 4, 1998.
Americans Consume a Lot of Hot Dogs on the 4th of July
If you thought people ate a lot of hot dogs on the 4th of July, you’d be right! According to statistics compiled by the National Hot Dog & Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs on this day alone. That’s enough to stretch from D.C. to LA more than five times!
Massachusetts Was the First to Make 4th of July a Holiday
On July 3, 1781, Massachusetts officially became the first state to recognize the Fourth of July as a holiday. Congress started designating federal holidays on June 28, 1870. The initial four holidays were New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
John Hancock Was the First to Sign the Declaration of Independence
John Hancock, then President of the Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence. His bold signature stretched across the bottom of the document and is one of the most recognizable signatures in history. His bold signature became the symbol for a person’s signature when someone said, “Put your John Hancock here.”
John Adams Felt Indedepence Should Be Celebrated on July 2
John Hancock strongly advocated for independence and wanted the Fourth of July to be celebrated on July 2 – when the Continental Congress voted in favor of the resolution.
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