The 4th of July is the anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence from Great Britain. In addition to commemorating our nation’s independence, the 4th of July is also a celebration of America’s core values of liberty and democracy.
For many, the 4th of July is a perfect opportunity to relax in the sun, have a few drinks, and watch fireworks with their family and friends.
But the holiday’s history is far more fascinating and dramatic than you would assume.
Here are 11 fun facts about America’s birthday that might surprise you!
On the 4th of July, we didn’t actually declare independence!
We didn’t actually declare independence on the 4th of July!
The official vote took place two days before and the Declaration was published in newspapers on July 4.
So, while we all celebrate America’s birthday on the 4th of July, technically, it’s not the day that we declared our independence. Nevertheless, it’s a day to celebrate our history and freedom!
Americans Will Enjoy 150 Million Hot Dogs During the 4th of July Holiday
While many of us will be celebrating the 4th of July with a cookout and some fireworks, did you know that Americans will also be chowing down on 150 million hot dogs?
That’s right – we love our hot dogs!
In fact, about one-third of all hot dogs consumed in the US are eaten during the summer months. So, if you’re planning on having a hot dog this holiday, you’re certainly not alone!
Only two men signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776
On July 4, 1776, just two people signed the Declaration of Independence: John Hancock and Charles Thompson. The other 54 delegates signed over during the following month.
So, while Hancock and Thompson may not have been the first to sign, their signatures are certainly the most famous!
The Average Age of The Signers Was 45 Years Old
The average age of the signers of the Declaration of Independence was 45 years old. The oldest signer was Benjamin Franklin, who was 70 years old at the time. The youngest signer was Edward Rutledge, who was 26 years old.
So, next time you think you’re too old to do something, remember that these men were middle-aged when they signed the Declaration of Independence!
The Liberty Bell Is Not The Same Bell That Was Rung on July 4, 1776
The Liberty Bell is one of the most iconic symbols of American freedom. But did you know that it’s not the same bell that was rung on July 4, 1776?
The bell that was actually rung on Independence Day was the “Liberty Bell of Pennsylvania” and it is now on display at the Museum of American History.
So, if you’re ever in Philadelphia, be sure to check out the Liberty Bell – just don’t expect it to be the same one that was rung over 200 years ago!
The Declaration of Independence Was Written on a Laptop
Not the kind of laptop you may be thinking…
The Declaration of Independence was actually written on a portable writing desk that was specially made for Thomas Jefferson that could fit over his lap.
This device was referred to at the time as a “laptop.”
The desk had a fold-out writing surface and Jefferson used it to draft the Declaration while he was traveling.
So, if you ever find yourself needing to write something important while on the go, just remember that Jefferson did it too!
Men Love Fireworks… $1 Billion Worth of Them
Men love fireworks. In fact, they love them so much that they spend about $1 billion on them each year.
That’s a lot of bang for your buck!
The history of fireworks displays dates back to the first anniversary in 1777, when they were initially held as a custom on July 4.
John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that Independence Day should be celebrated with “pomp, parade, shows, and “illuminations.” When Adams originally thought that July 2 was the day of the vote for independence, he even wrote that fireworks should be used to celebrate that day as well.
So, if you’re planning on setting off some fireworks this 4th of July, you’re not only following in the footsteps of our Founding Fathers, but you’re also helping to keep alive a tradition that dates back over 200 years!
Most Americans Have Never Read The Declaration of Independence
Despite the fact that the Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in American history, most Americans have never actually read it.
In fact, a study found that only about one-third of Americans could correctly identify the document.
So, if you’re one of the few who have actually read the Declaration, consider yourself part of a select group!
Wearing Old Glory Violates The U.S. Flag Code
If you’re planning on wearing an American flag T-shirt or baseball cap this 4th of July, you might want to think again.
According to the U.S. Flag Code, it is actually considered a violation to wear the flag on clothing.
The code states that the flag should only be worn “in a manner that is respectful and not derogatory.”
However, the Flag Code itself is not applicable in this situation because it is unenforced or even enforceable. Don’t worry, you won’t be arrested by the Flag Police.
So, if you’re looking to show your patriotic spirit in a more respectful way, you might want to consider flying the flag instead!
Bizarre 50th Anniversary
Are you a believer in coincidences? If not, the following story may make you a believer.
In 1776, on July 4th, the Declaration of Independence was signed. In 1826, on July 4th, both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died just 5 hours apart. In 1926, on the 50th anniversary of their deaths, on July 4th, President Calvin Coolidge was born.
Now that’s a bizarre coincidence!
A little late to the party, perhaps…
July 4th was not designated a federal holiday until 1870, nearly one hundred years after the United States came into being.
It wasn’t until 1938 that it became a paid holiday for federal employees.
So, if you’re planning on taking the day off this year, you can thank Franklin Roosevelt for making it possible!
Now that you’ve learned these 11 fascinating facts, go out and have a wonderful time with your family and friends!
It’s time to begin the barbecue.
Happy 4th of July!
