USA Independence Day on July 4: History and significance

The resolution in favour for independence got a near-unanimous support from the Continental Congress on July 2, 1776. Two days later, on July 4, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Thomas Jefferson.

This is why July 4 is celebrated as the birth of American independence.

Before 1776, annual celebrations were held on the birthday of the British monarch King George III. However, after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, the local population started organising events to celebrate their independence from the British empire. In 1778, the first American President, George Washington, issued double rations to soldiers on July 4.

As the 13 colonies grew westward and the United States (United Colonies back then) expanded its territory, July 4 became the day to not only commemorate the Declaration of Independence but also create a feeling of unity. By the end of the 18th Century, two main political parties in the country — the Federalist Party and Democratic-Republicans — started holding July 4 celebrations in all large cities. The tradition carried on and in 1941, July 4 was declared as a paid holiday for all federal employees.