Do you have any notion what really happened on July 4, 1776? Most people don’t but here’s a rundown.
The war between colonists and British troops, aka the American Revolution, began on April 19, 1775, during the battles of Lexington and Concord when the first shots were fired. On July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from Britain. On July 4, Congress approved the final draft of the Declaration of Independence. It was not signed until August 2; following the signing, the document was declared official on August 4.
John Adams, who would become the nation’s second president, thought the official celebration of Independence Day should be fun and festive rather than oppressive displays of military might. Most of the colonies fell in line with this idea.
These days, fireworks continue to be the main focus of July 4th celebrations. Barbecues and parades are also important, but fireworks lead the way. Use of fireworks by individuals has seen an increase in recent years, as they not only became cheaper, but many states and municipalities relaxed regulations concerning them. There’s also been an increase in serious injuries.
Uptown Athens always has a fantastic fireworks display, so if that’s what revs up your heartbeat on Independence Day, check out the Athens events page and plan to go. If you’re doing your own display, check local regulations and behave accordingly. No cherry bombs. No M-80s. And no firing pistols into the air. The rounds come down, and do damage. Happy 4th.