Break out the BBQ and unfurl your flags, Independence Day is here! Founding Father John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, that he believed the holiday would be celebrated with parades, sports, shows, and illuminations. After 247 years, Americans are keeping those traditions alive, though not on the date that Adams anticipated. The Second Continental Congress voted to approve the independence of the United States of America on July 2, 1776, but formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4. That date, enshrined on the Declaration document, became the one we observe today. If you"re looking for a grand way to celebrate, journey to New York City for views of their annual fireworks show and the Empire State Building lit up to match in red, white, and blue.
Happy Independence Day!
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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The persistence of Perito Moreno
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A duckling swimming in a water meadow, Suffolk, England
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Stepping stones in Tollymore Forest Park, Northern Ireland
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A path to access
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International Rock Day
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Here s looking at you
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Happy Thanksgiving!
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Atlanta Botanical Garden
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Longer days mean warmer sand
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Is that a buzzing sound?
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Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia
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Protecting Alaska
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Moody skies over Valletta
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Cousins Day
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World Migratory Bird Day
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Bridges to the past
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National Gardening Week
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Lion cubs, South Africa
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Waiting for the perfect shot
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Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park, Washington
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Everyone s watching the Perseids
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The aftermath of a meteorite
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Surf s always up in Paia
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Celebrating Mexico in a Cultural Capital
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Humming along
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The dry days of winter in Etosha
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Happy Easter!
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Toledo, Spain
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Autumn equinox
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Cannes, France, in the spotlight
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