What You Should Know About Fourth of July History

When many of us think of the Fourth of July, images of modern-day fireworks, parades, and backyard barbecues come to mind. But how much do you know about the Fourth of July history? You probably know that the Fourth of July has something to do with the Declaration of Independence. Still, you might have lost track of some finer details over time—especially if it's been several years since your last American history class.

As you decorate in red, white, and blue and prepare your Fourth of July meal this summer, take a minute to brush up on the holiday's history and reflect on what it means to you.

When Is the Fourth of July?

Although it's been celebrated since 1777, it wasn't declared a federal holiday until 1870. Since the holiday is always on July 4, the day of the week changes each year.

Fourth of July History

We need to go back about 400 years to understand Fourth of July history and the holiday's significance. Native Americans already lived in North America when a small colony of European immigrants developed in Jamestown, Virginia, in the early 1600s. But the story of Independence Day starts roughly when the Mayflower sailed to America in 1620 (although we typically associate that journey with the Thanksgiving holiday).

The 102 immigrants who came over on the Mayflower were mainly protestants from Britain who left because they didn't want to join the Church of England. Since they were no longer welcome in Britain, they left England in search of a place to live freely without judgment or persecution for their beliefs. In the fall of 1620, they landed in what is now known as New England.

Over the next few years, more Europeans traveled to North America and formed the 13 colonies. These colonies would later become the states of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.

What Is the 4th of July?

The colonists continued to live far from British rule for 150 years, although tensions between the two steadily rose until the American Revolution began in 1775. Many people associate the Fourth of July with the war's end, but that's not the case. One year into the war, the Continental Congress voted to approve the writing of a document that would declare America's independence from Britain. Thomas Jefferson drafted the official Declaration of Independence, and on July 4, 1776, Congress adopted the declaration, and America was officially fighting for its independence. Later, 56 representatives from the 13 colonies signed the declaration at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia.

The holiday itself commemorates the first time the 13 colonies officially declared America as an independent country. Although the Revolutionary War wasn't won until 1783, we celebrate the symbolism of the declaration each year on July 4.

So as you put up your red, white, and blue streamers ($4, Walmart), display your American flag ($21, Walmart), and enjoy the fireworks show this year, think about the sacrifices of our country's founders and take a few moments to learn about the long journey to the America we know today.