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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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: palinchak/DepositPhotos Barack Obama's oldest daughter, Malia, was born on July 4, 1998. Americans Consume a Lot of Hot Dogs on the 4th of July Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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 Photo Credit: Canva 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. More From Inspired by Insiders Photo credit: Canva Canada has incredible natural landscapes, diverse cultures, and friendly people. It is a safe and welcoming place to visit, but be aware that there are some significant cultural nuances and laws you should abide by. Here are some things to never do to help you make the most of your Canadian adventure. 15 Things to Never Do in Canada 15 Things Foreigners Hate About America Photo Credit: Canva What’s not to love about the United States? From its culture to its economy, there is a lot to appreciate. Unfortunately, not everyone sees America as the perfect place they might like it to be. Here are 15 things foreigners hate about the US. 15 Things Foreigners Hate About America 25 Things to Never Do in the United States Photo Credit: Canva Visiting the United States can be an incredible experience. You get to immerse yourself in a new culture, explore unique places, and try delicious food. But did you know that there are certain things you should never do while in the US? Read on to find out what these 25 things are. 25 Things to Never Do in the United States 12 Things Most Americans Don’t Know About America Photo Credit: Canva Is it possible that there are some things most Americans (you) don’t know about their country? Absolutely! You may be surprised to discover some interesting facts about the United States that you never knew before. See for yourself! 12 Things Most Americans Don’t Know About America 20 Things to Never Do in France Photo Credit: Canva If you plan a trip to France, you’re in for an incredible experience. However, to ensure you make the most of your trip and don’t offend any locals, there are a few things you should never do during your stay in France. 20 Things to Never Do in France This article was produced on Inspired by Insiders.