Did You Know?

The Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Library of Congress notes that marked an official announcement of the colonies’ separation from Great Britain, but it would be awhile before celebrating American independence on July 4 became commonplace. According to the LOC, it was not until the conclusion of the War of 1812 that festivities celebrating American independence became the norm. Curiously, even though the War of 1812 officially concluded in 1815, Congress did not pass a law making Independence Day a federal holiday until 1870. Since then, Americans have celebrated July 4 in numerous ways. Backyard barbecues and community fireworks displays are popular ways to celebrate the holiday. Some even experience life-changing moments on July 4, when the country still holds naturalization ceremonies at which many individuals officially become U.S. citizens