Hi Kids, and welcome to Arkansas 1st! Below, I’m going to share three important facts about July 4th
1. What Happened on July 4th?
On July 4, 1776, leaders from the 13 American colonies came together and signed an important paper called the Declaration of Independence.
This document said that the colonies were free and would no longer be ruled by Great Britain.
That’s why we call it Independence Day—because it’s the birthday of the United States of America!
2. When Did It Become a Holiday?
People began celebrating the Fourth of July as early as 1777, just one year after the Declaration was signed.
They held parades, rang bells, and had fireworks to honor America’s freedom.
But it didn’t become an official national holiday until 1870—almost 100 years later!
Even then, people didn’t get a paid day off until many years after that.
3. Why Do We Have Fireworks?
We shoot off fireworks on the Fourth of July to celebrate freedom in a loud, bright, and exciting way!
The tradition started with the very first celebration in Philadelphia in 1777, where people watched fireworks and lit bonfires.
The fireworks were a way to show joy and pride in becoming a free country—and they’ve been part of the celebration ever since.
Even the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” mentions “the rockets’ red glare,” which reminds us of fireworks and the fight for freedom.
Thanks for reading, and Happy Independence Day from Arkansas 1st!
🎇 Be safe and enjoy the celebration! 🇺🇸
By: Gia Lancaster, Age 8
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