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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International Polar Bear Day
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Look to the north sky tonight for the Perseids
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Looking back on 150 years of rail travel
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Mod gear
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Ponta Delgada
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Quiver trees in Namibia
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Kelp buddies
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Kings Mountain, Chugach Mountains, Alaska
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Celebrating Minnesota’s statehood
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Moose, Denali National Park, Alaska
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Gunnerside, Yorkshire Dales National Park, England
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Lighting it up for Vivid Sydney
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St. Patricks Day in County Waterford, Ireland
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Replica of a Viking home in Dublin National Botanic Gardens, Ireland
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In the belly of Fat Bear Week
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Groundhog Day
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It s truffle season here in the Dordogne Valley
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Ribblehead Viaduct, North Yorkshire, England
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Where is this gorgeous peak?
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Flooded crypt, Basilica of San Francesco, Ravenna, Italy
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High tide at the walled city
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Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California
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Río Negro, Amazon basin, Brazil
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Meet our fuzzy Earth Day mascot
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Asteroid Day
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Don t forget—it’s World Elephant Day
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World Population Day
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All eyes on sustainability
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Behold the mighty Aldeyjarfoss
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Bringing together history and technology
Bing Wallpaper Gallery

