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
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Pont Rouge
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Weaverbird nests at Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve
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World Elephant Day
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Kangaroo family for National Hugging Day
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Burrowing owls
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Joshua Tree National Park
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Desert rose of Qatar
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English National Ballet performing The Nutcracker
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Gentoo penguins in Antarctica
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White Desert National Park, Egypt
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Happy Mothers Day!
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Presidents hear the echo of history
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Happy Mothers Day!
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Hanging out on a limb
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A winter light show
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Mount Rainier National Park
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An opulent backdrop for a historic event
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Angkor, Cambodia
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Great cormorants
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Happy Boxing Day!
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Black Fell in England s Lake District
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Siblings Day
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Milford Sound/Piopiotahi rainforest in New Zealand
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Lands End, Cornwall, England
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National Aviation Day
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Veterans Day
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Spreadsheet Day
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Construction workers resting above Manhattan
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Happy trails for the 21st century
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This grizzly has Napping Day down