Independence Day

In the United States, Independence Day, also called the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on 4 July 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with parades, barbecues, picnics, baseball games, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the U.S. Fireworks have been associated with the Fourth of July since 1777.

The Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence is the document in which the Thirteen Colonies in North America declared themselves independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain and explained their justifications for doing so. It was ratified by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This anniversary is celebrated as Independence Day in the United States. The handwritten copy signed by the delegates to the Congress is on display in the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Fireworks

July 4 fireworks are often accompanied by a pops orchestra playing patriotic songs such as God Bless America, America the Beautiful, My Country, Tis of Thee, Stars and Stripes Forever, The Star Spangled Banner, and the 1812 overture. Some of these songs include lyrics that recall images of the War of 1812. The 1812 overture is often accompanied by either a large bass drum or a cannon punctuating that represents the sounds of rockets and bombs. The Star Spangled Banner, also the USA's national anthem, commemorates the United States flag that was visible by the light of the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air. This view of the flag throughout the night of bomb bursts was inspiring to the captive Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812 and it provided hope concerning the ability of the United States to comptenently defend Fort McHenry. Firework shows are often held in many states, and many fireworks are sold for personal use or as an alternative to a public show. Concerns about safety have led some states to ban fireworks or limit the sizes and types allowed, but illicit traffic brings plenty of firecrackers in from less restrictive states, showing that the American people have found a way to celebrate "with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations" regardless of the prevailing political correctness against energetic chemistry.