Fourth of July Independence Day Observance: Then and Now

Changes and celebration of US Independence Day from 1776 up to present

Danwil Reyes
5 min readJul 2, 2022
Photo by Lavi Perchik on Unsplash

The Fourth of July Independence Day Observance: Then and Now, is the title that I chose to write this very important day in the history of the United States of America. Why? Read through this and you’ll know how I chose it. As a US citizen, I love America, even though a lot of things have changed since 1776.

But first, what is the Fourth of July, also known as the US Independence Day?

The US Independence Day

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Independence Day is a national holiday in the United States celebrated on July 4th. The holiday commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The date was chosen to commemorate the day on which the Continental Congress in the US voted to declare independence from Great Britain. This federal holiday commemorates the momentous event and celebrates the United States’ independence from its colonial past.

The Meaning of Independence Day To Americans

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For many Americans, the Fourth of July is not only a holiday but also a reminder of the values that make the United States unique. These values include democracy, freedom, and opportunity. Independence Day is also an opportunity to celebrate the country’s history and culture. Many Americans believe that the principles expressed in the Declaration of Independence are still applicable today.

The Significance of the US Independence Day To Americans

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July 4th is an important day for Americans because it commemorates the independence of the United States from Great Britain. This event happened on July 4, 1776, and it was a very important moment in American history. The Declaration of Independence is one of the most famous documents in American history, and it is often quoted at Independence Day celebrations. This declaration helped to inspire the thirteen colonies in North America.

But over the years there are some changes the way the Americans celebrate the Fourth of July!

How the Americans Celebrated the Independence Day Then

In the early days, Independence Day was celebrated as a day to celebrate American independence from British rule.

On July 4, every year, the day we celebrate our independence, the Declaration of Independence was written on parchment, not paper. There were no fireworks or parades on July 4th. The flag of the United States did not have 13 stripes and 14 stars until after the Civil War.

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On July 4, 1776, the colonists celebrated by firing cannon into the air. On that day, the Declaration of Independence from the British rule was signed, signaling the beginning of the American Revolution. Women did not gain the right to vote until 1920.

The Second Continental Congress adopted a resolution declaring that all men are created equal and that they are endowed with certain unalienable rights.

How Americans Celebrate Independence Day Now

Over the years, Independence Day has become more of a celebration of American patriotism, from a day to commemorate the American Revolution to a day to celebrate all things American. It has become more about celebrating national unity than it is about celebrating the birth of the United States and rallying against a common enemy.

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The US Independence Day is celebrated with festivals, parades, patriotic speeches, picnics, and typically features displays of American flags and fireworks. There are many events and activities held throughout the United States to commemorate Independence Day. Many Americans spend time with family and friends to celebrate this important holiday. Americans often celebrate independence by eating barbecue and drinking alcoholic beverages. The July 4th marks the end of summer vacation for most Americans.

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Furthermore, many Americans see the Fourth of July to celebrate the country’s diversity and pluralism. This change in perspective has led to some controversial changes to Independence Day celebrations. For example, some cities now have festivals that focus on ethnic diversity, while others have adopted pro-immigration policies in an effort to reflect the growing population of immigrants in the United States. Over time, some Americans call Independence Day as the National Fireworks Display Day instead.

In conclusion, we all have a responsibility to act in the best interest of our country and its people. It is important that we all come together to celebrate the Fourth of July. Regardless of how you choose to celebrate, we should all remember what this day stands for and what it means to our country.

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Yes, no matter how you see and celebrate the Independence Day, we must speak and act for what is good for the US and what is best for the American people. May we stay in the spirit of togetherness as we once were in 1776, being religious people, where we trust God (Yahweh)!

The words “in God we trust” are even inscribed in the American currency! The Senate Chamber in the US Capitol is inscribed with the words “In God we trust,” and the same words also appears directly behind the Speaker’s chair in the House Chamber! In fact, “In God we trust” is America’s national motto!

Yes, we need not rely on our own understanding, but on God’s! As Americans and as a people, we need to preserve our good values, and always stay with the right conduct in our thoughts and actions!

Let’s work together to make America a better place for everyone. Let’s come together to celebrate the Fourth of July, and let’s remember what it means to be American.

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If you enjoyed reading the Fourth of July Independence Day Observance: Then and Now, kindly share this blog with your family, friends, and on social media. You can follow me here and check out my other articles here. You can also sign-up here to receive a free email notification of my new posts. Happy Independence Day! Please take care of yourself and each other. Let us spread love and peace. Cheers!

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Danwil Reyes
Danwil Reyes

Written by Danwil Reyes

Silver and gold have I none, but I'll give you what I have: the power of true love and real truth from things above! May you have heavenly peace and blessings.

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