What Do You Know About the Fourth of July?

What comes to mind when you think about the Fourth of July? Do you automatically think about America's independence and anticipate spending a day at home researching all that you can about America? Or do you anticipate the fireworks show and gathering of family and friends at a cookout? Many Americans anticipate the Fourth of July because of its festivities and not because of its independence. Some Americans do not fully understand why we commemorate the fourth of July. This lack of knowledge about the Fourth can easily be due to the over commercialization of the day. The fireworks and party and food seem to surpass the essence of the day. Below I have answered some common questions about the Fourth of July.

Why do we celebrate the Fourth of July? On July 4th 1776, America gained its independence from Britain. During the 16th century United States was composed of 13 colonies. These 13 colonies were under the rule of England more specifically, the king of England at that time, King George the third. Under this rule, the colonies were continuously taxed and had no say; they had no representation in the English Parliament. The colonies' war of independence ensued and came to a halt with the signing of the Declaration of Independence early in the month of August 1776. The Declaration of Independence outlined the colonies' freedom to rule itself and form its own government.

Why are there fireworks? Fireworks were first invented in China 2,000 plus years ago. Fireworks were used in China to deflect evil sprits and to also pray for happiness and prosperity. Early American settlers used fireworks and black ash to celebrate important events. The use of fireworks continued to be part of American life and was used in George Washington's Inauguration of 1789. The attraction towards fireworks never faded and is anticipated by Americans each year.

Why do people have cookouts? It is not known where the concept of cookouts began but is safe to assume that the day off from work everyone received and the warm summer weather and fireworks created an ideal atmosphere for cookouts. The idea of an outdoor celebration seems to have caught on and is now a tradition for many Americans.

Does Britain or any other country celebrate the Fourth of July? Well, let's think about that. The Fourth of July is a national holiday in America. It is a day that commemorates America's freedom from British rule. So, it would seem as though the British would have felt bitter over this loss, the Americans not so much. The Fourth of July is only celebrated in America. Many countries do celebrate other national days or independence days for example; France celebrates Bastille Day on July 14th. Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille fortress-prison. Cardfountain.com mentions that, "This storming was symbolic for the uprising of the modern nation, and of the reconciliation of all the French inside the constitutional monarchy."

Why do they play marching music on the fourth? March music was used to help the soldiers keep time during the 18th century when marching. Drums were also used as a form of communication (during the Civil War) to wake the soldiers and to signal them to move forward in battle. According to National Park Service, "Some brigade bands did accompany their commanders onto the field and played patriotic songs while under the battle raged all around them."

Why do they wear those weird old clothing during the fourth? The "Old Weird clothing" is what was worn during the 18th century. Traditional 18th century gear for men included the three cornered hat, knee length coats, silk cravat, waistcoat (or vest) breeches (covering waist to knees,) stocking, shoes with large buckle across tope, and cane. Traditional 18th century women clothing included; decorative wide brim hat, lace neck kerchief, stomacher, gown, lace apron, and pointy toed shoes. So what seems to be old and weird now was what was in style in the 18th century, and since the signing of the Declarations of Independence took place in the 18th century it is appropriate that modern people wear the garments of the past to remember and pay tribute to the times.