Firecrackers, Freedom, and Founders!
Welcome to History's Not Boring! Today, July 4th, is super special for Americans because it marks the day the leaders of the 13 colonies officially said, 'We're done being ruled by a King!' This big moment in 1776 kicked off a whole new adventure for the United States. But wait, there's more! We also have battles, sad moments, and some very famous birthday cakes to look at!
Did you know that on this day, the US declared independence in 1776, but even three of the first five US Presidents died on July 4th? Talk about a historic date! From ancient battles that shaped empires to the start of a new nation, July 4th is a whirlwind of world-changing moments.
What Happened on This Day
America Says 'No Thanks!' to the King
On this day, the Second Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence! Imagine writing a really long, strongly-worded letter to your principal explaining exactly why you want to run your own club—that’s kind of what the Founding Fathers did to King George III of Great Britain. Thomas Jefferson was the main writer. It was a super brave step that officially started the United States of America!
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A Giant Gift From France Arrives
The Statue of Liberty, the giant lady holding a torch that greets ships in New York Harbor, was officially presented to the United States by France on this day! It was a gift to celebrate friendship and the idea of liberty that both countries love. Imagine getting a massive, copper statue as a birthday present—that’s what happened! It took a long time to assemble, but seeing her dedicated on the 4th was epic.
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The Fourth of July Becomes a US Holiday
While Americans celebrated the Declaration of Independence every year since 1777, it wasn't an official US federal holiday yet! In 1870, Congress made July 4th a paid holiday for federal employees. This meant that more people could take the day off to have parades, eat barbecue, and set off those amazing fireworks. It made the birthday party official for the whole country!
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Big Sports Victory Leads to Big Trouble
On this day, the incredible African-American boxer Jack Johnson knocked out his white opponent, Jim Jeffries, in a world championship boxing match. This victory was huge for many people, but sadly, it sparked riots across the US as angry groups lashed out. It was a moment that showed how deeply prejudice ran in society, even amidst the celebrations of Independence Day.
Founding Fathers Take Their Final Bow
In one of history's strangest coincidences, two massive names from the American Revolution—Thomas Jefferson (the Declaration's main author) and John Adams (a key supporter)—both passed away on the *exact same day*! That day? July 4th, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration they helped create. It was like the date itself said, 'Your work is done.' Years later, James Monroe, another president, also died on July 4th!
Fun Facts About July 4
- The Liberty Bell rang out in Philadelphia to announce the Declaration's adoption in 1776!
- Only one US President, Calvin Coolidge, was actually born on July 4th.
- In 1862, Captain N.C. Brooks claimed the Midway Islands for the United States.
- Musician Bill Withers and rapper Post Malone share a July 4th birthday!
A Look Back in Time
July 4th is most famous for the birth of the USA, when the 13 colonies decided to try life without a king, leading to the American Revolution. But the world was busy too! In ancient Greece, the Battle of Mantinea (362 BC) happened on this day, weakening city-states like Thebes and Sparta and setting the stage for Alexander the Great. Later, in 1187, the Muslim leader Saladin won a huge victory at the Battle of Hattin during the Crusades, changing the balance of power in the Middle East.
Born on This Day
Calvin Coolidge
Coolidge was the 30th President of the United States and the only one born on July 4th! He was known for being quiet, earning him the nickname 'Silent Cal.' He led the US through a time of great economic growth in the 1920s.
Nathaniel Hawthorne
Hawthorne was a famous American author who wrote classic books like *The Scarlet Letter*. His stories often explored spooky, moral themes about people in early New England history, making him a master of early American literature.
Bill Withers
This singer-songwriter wrote some of the grooviest, feel-good songs ever, like 'Lean on Me' and 'Lovely Day.' Imagine having a birthday and getting to hear your own amazing songs played everywhere! He brought soul and heart to his music.
Malia Obama
Malia is the older daughter of former US President Barack Obama. She celebrated her birthday every year while living in the White House! She is now studying and working in the world of television and filmmaking.