Written by Sanjana Nayakanti, a grade 6 student (this is an archived piece. It was first published in July 2021)

The 4^th of July is celebrated as Independence Day in the US.

It’s a national holiday in the United States of America. What’s the history of the 4th of July and why do Americans celebrate it?

Let’s look at it…

The History of the 4th of July

July 4^th is one of the most special holidays in the United States. It was the day 13 colonies of the United States signed, what’s called, the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain.

The Declaration was a document that the 13 North American colonies would separate from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence, was passed on July 4, 1776.

Why did the colonies want to separate from Great Britain?

The states that were under the British rule (the colonies) reflected were not happy with British control. They opposed many of the laws and taxes enacted by Britain.

The Celebration

On July 4^th there are fireworks all over America. It seems that all Americans come together for this proud moment with all their pride for the country. There is a beautiful sight to watch in the sky. It is full of fireworks, sky lanterns, and many more amazing things put up in the sky to show the pride they have for their nation.

The fireworks are often accompanied by patriotic songs. But all this is during the night. The day celebrations are packed with parades, carnivals, barbeques, family reunions, community reunions, political speeches, parties, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, and many other events to celebrate traditions of the Americans!

Also, a salute of one gun for each state in the United States called a “salute to the union,” is fired on this day at noon by their military base.

Since then. July 4, 1776, is celebrated as America’s Birthday!

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