Why is 4th of July Celebrated as US Independence Day? Know Significance and History

Washington: US Independence Day, celebrated annually on July 4, marks the United States' declaration of independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. Since then, July 4 has been celebrated as Independence Day every year and has been recognised as a significant federal holiday.

The Declaration of Independence proclaims, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

This year, July 4 will mark the 278th anniversary of the founding of the United States (US). Here's all you need to know about the day:

History of US Independence Day

Although July 4, 1776, is the day the American colonies celebrated for independence, the journey began on July 2, 1776. On this date, the Continental Congress voted for independence, with 12 of the 13 colonies deciding to break away from Great Britain. 

Important figures like Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin declared the colonies free and independent states. The Declaration of Independence, listing the colonists’ complaints against the British government and their right to self-rule, was approved and adopted on July 4, 1776. This made the colonies officially independent, and July 4th became known as US Independence Day.

Significance and Celebrations

The Fourth of July represents American independence and patriotism, celebrating the principles of liberty, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness that the country was built on. The White House had its first July 4 celebration in 1801, starting a yearly tradition. 

On this day, Americans remember the courage and sacrifices of the Founding Fathers who fought for freedom, equality, and self-government. Celebrations include patriotic displays, parades, fireworks, and community gatherings, showcasing the United States' lasting spirit of freedom.

The first Independence Day celebrations happened in the summer of 1777, a year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. People celebrated with bonfires, parades, music, and fireworks, establishing traditions that continue to this day.

Today, July 4th is celebrated nationwide with various activities. Families and friends gather for barbecues, picnics, and reunions. Many towns and cities hold parades featuring marching bands, floats, and patriotic displays. The evening often concludes with stunning fireworks shows, lighting up the sky in red, white, and blue.

This year, several firework events are planned in the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas.

People come together for parades to celebrate the special day. These parades feature music, and participants dressed in red, white, and blue. Following the parades, festivals, carnivals, and fairs offer a variety of food, fun rides, and activities for everyone to enjoy.

What's Open and Shut Today In the US

In observance of Independence Day, government offices, post offices, the stock market, and all major banks, including Capital One, Bank of America, PNC, Truist, CitiBank, and JPMorgan Chase, will be closed on July 4th. Retail stores, supermarkets, parks, bars, and restaurants will remain open but with modified hours.