Guide Note
Independence Day is a holiday celebrated on an annual basis, and in many countries it refers to a date in their history in which they assumed their own identity as a nation. In the United States, July 4 is the date on which the independence from Great Britain is recognized.
Fast Facts
- Independence Day in America is July 4th
- Declared a legal holiday in 1941
- Banks and Government Offices are closed
Born on the 4th of July
In 1776, representatives of the Thirteen Colonies that came to make up the United States of America signed the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. This document is said to be the founding document of the country. However, a common misconception is that all signatories did so on July 4, when in fact only John Hancock penned his famous signature on that date. Every year since 1777, when 13 guns were fired, there are celebration across the United States, mostly these days containing a fireworks display and parades.
Celebration
Many people gather with family and friends to celebrate the holiday by taking part in local community festivals and consuming great quantities of food such as, but not exclusively, hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, apple pie, and beer.
