The 4th of July, Independence Day: History, Celebrations & Traditions
Discover why July 4th matters — from the Declaration of Independence to fireworks, feasts, and the fun at America’s biggest holiday
This post can be read in Tocsin Magazine, and all Medium members can read the full article here.
Introduction
It’s July — the sun blazes, heat waves strike relentlessly, and temperature records are falling due to climate change. One of the biggest holidays in the entire USA is just around the corner: the 4th of July, or Independence Day, a day of immense significance for every American — and it’s only two days away.
This day is so important that Hollywood has immortalized it in films like Independence Day starring Will Smith and Born on the Fourth of July with Tom Cruise.
What Is the 4th of July and Why Is It Celebrated?
The USA wasn’t always a unified nation — it began as thirteen British colonies under monarchical rule. Tired of English arbitrary control and oppression, the so-called “Founding Fathers” decided to break away from Great Britain and establish a new, independent nation.
Independence Day, popularly known as the Fourth of July, marks the celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. On that day, the thirteen American colonies officially severed political ties with the British Crown.
Though the Continental Congress voted for independence on July 2, 1776, the actual wording of the Declaration was finalized and ratified two days later; hence, July 4 became, and remains, celebrated as the birth of the nation.
Who Drafted the Declaration of Independence — and Why It Mattered
Thomas Jefferson was the principal drafter, working within the “Committee of Five” alongside John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. Jefferson penned the initial draft between June 11 and June 28, 1776, after which Congress made edits and revised it several times.
The document comprises four key sections:
- Preamble — States natural rights and explains that governments derive their power from the governed, with the power to replace governments that fail to protect these rights. It famously begins: “We hold these truths to be self‑evident…”
- List of Grievances — Enumerates British abuses, including taxation without representation, quartering soldiers, and denial of trial by jury.
- Formal Declaration — Declares absolute independence and outlines the colonies’ new powers (waging war, trade, and diplomacy).
- Signatures — Final page bears the names of about 56 signers pledging their “Lives, Fortunes and sacred Honor.” John Hancock was the first signer on August 2, 1776. constitutionfacts.com
This Declaration demonstrated to the world — and to Britain — why the colonies sought independence. It grounded the nation in natural law ideology and influenced global movements for liberty and equality, including women’s rights. It remains a symbol of American values: freedom, equality, and self-governance.
How July 4 is Celebrated and Its Traditions
Celebrations on this day take place across America and are best known for their fireworks displays — a tradition dating back to 1777, inspired originally by European royal festivities
Besides fireworks, there are parades, both civic and military, including the official parade on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., washingtonpost.com
Concerts and speeches are common features of the day, along with church services and academic ceremonies.
What every true American eagerly anticipates on this day are barbecues, picnics, processions, and sporting events — especially baseball games, often accompanied by music and local customs. 123cards.com
Traditional Foods & Drinks
Independence Day features iconic American foods, particularly grilled items and seasonal fare:
- Hot dogs, burgers, sausages — Essential to any BBQ.
- Pulled pork, ribs, brisket — Particularly popular in the South and Midwest.
- Salads — Potato salad, coleslaw, three‑bean, and baked beans.
- Seasonal dishes — Grilled salmon with peas and new potatoes.
- Desserts — American pies (apple, blueberry, cherry), “flag cake” (resembles the flag), ice cream, and patriotic drinks like sangria.
Fun Facts About July 4th
Three U.S. Presidents died on July 4th: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe all passed away on Independence Day. Adams and Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826 — the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence — and Monroe died exactly five years later on July 4, 1831. greenlight.com
Over $1 billion is spent annually on fireworks in the United States on July 4th. greenlight.com
Americans consume about 150 million hot dogs on that day every year. callmsi.com
On July 4, 1778, the Continental Army marked the holiday with a double ration of rum for the troops, ordered by General George Washington. livingadk.org
Conclusion
As you can see, July 4th is more than just a holiday — it’s a deeply rooted celebration of freedom, nationhood, and shared values. Through traditional parades, fireworks, BBQs, and more, Americans honor the courage of their founders and the liberties that define the country.
It’s worth acknowledging that independence did not initially mean freedom for all; Native Americans, enslaved people, and women remained excluded. Movements like Juneteenth highlight the ongoing journey to realize the Declaration’s promise for every American. time.com
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