Fourth of July History and Trivia
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Every American loves to celebrate the Fourth of July...fireworks, cookouts, and patriotism at it's best. But what does it all mean?
July 4th is also known as American Independence Day. It celebrates the birth of the United States. If you want to be specific, the date commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 4, 1776. This is when the thirteen colonies declared independence from England.
More July 4th Facts
Did you know that the adoption was not unanimous?! New York abstained from voting, Pennsylvania and South Carolina voted no, and Delaware was divided!
The Declaration was first printed in a newspaper on July 6, 1776, and then read for the first time on July 8, 1776. The signing began on August 2, 1776, and it wasn’t finished until several weeks later.
The first celebration of the Declaration occurred in Philadelphia the next year, in 1777. Bells rang, cannons boomed and there were bonfires and fireworks. At night, Philadelphians placed lighted candles in their windows.
In following years, the celebrations spread, and as Americans moved westward, they took their traditions with them. Parades began! Parades included local dignitaries, the military and representatives of businesses and organizations. Races and games were held, orations were delivered, fireworks were set off, and food was eaten.
Today, when one thinks of the July 4th and Independence Day, they think of fireworks, parades, barbecues and picnics.
A few other interesting facts about the this patriotic holiday:
Fourth of July Party Trivia Games
Print Games Now has all sorts of great games that you can purchase online and print at home (read my review here.) But I recently learned that they have Trivia Games about every state! Wow! That is a lot of trivia!I think it would be fun to have a party and play some of the American Independence Day Printable Games from their site, along with the ones that are specific for your state. They start at just $2.95, and it is hard to find a party game for all ages to play that can beat that price!
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