By the mid-18th century, the thirteen colonies in North America were flourishing under British rule. But as tensions rose over taxation, trade restrictions, and lack of representation in Parliament, many colonists began to call for greater autonomy. Events like the Stamp Act (1765), the Boston Massacre (1770), and the Boston Tea Party (1773) deepened the divide between Britain and its American colonies.
In 1774, the First Continental Congress convened to address these concerns. When reconciliation failed, armed conflict broke out in April 1775 with the battles of Lexington and Concord, effectively beginning the American Revolution.
In the summer of 1776, leaders from the colonies met again in Philadelphia. After much debate, on July 2, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence. Two days later, on July 4, they formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson.
The document announced the colonies' separation from Great Britain and outlined the principles that would guide the new nation, chief among them, the belief that all individuals are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It was signed by 56 delegates, including John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Jefferson himself.
News of the Declaration spread quickly through the colonies. On July 8, 1776, it was publicly read for the first time in Philadelphia, accompanied by ringing bells and band music. The following year, Philadelphia celebrated July 4th with fireworks, bonfires, and a ceremonial reading of the Declaration. These early commemorations set the tone for the patriotic traditions we recognize today.
For decades after the Revolution, July 4th was observed with parades, speeches, and gatherings. In 1870, nearly a century later, Congress officially made Independence Day a federal holiday. It became a paid holiday for federal employees in 1938.
The Fourth of July is a reminder of the courage, vision, and unity that helped shape our country. We must continue to honor the commitment to freedom, self-governance, and shared purpose made in 1776 with gratitude and pride.
Happy Independence Day!