'Find a moment, just a simple moment, to close your eyes and think of the men and women who protect the freedoms you enjoy. It's a privilege, not a right.' - Matthew Lillard
On the July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress, comprising the founding fathers of the United States, made a momentous decision. They declared that the thirteen colonies were no longer under the rule of King George III of Britain. This historic event marked the birth of the United Stated of America.
Two days later, on the 4th of July, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted. While some Americans celebrated their newfound freedom that very year, others chose to wait until the following year. However, this celebration was not widespread.
Three decades later, the United States faced challenges from Britain’s interference in trade, the desire to expand its settlement, and the desire to completely end British influence in the North. These factors ultimately led to the declaration of war against the United Kingdom.
'Too many of us view liberty as something that 'just is,' and too few see it as something that 'is' only because someone, somewhere was faced with the formidable reality that to keep liberty meant paying a stiff price.' - Craig D. Lounsbrough
After two years of conflict, and 23,600 deaths, the war concluded in a draw. On December 24, 1814, the Treaty of Ghent was signed, resulting in Great Britain relinquishing its claims to the Northwest Territory. Both nations committed to working towards the abolition of the slave trade.
The end of the war brought about a surge in celebrations of Independence Day, with many more Americans joining in the festivities.
The 4th of July, a day of national celebration, was officially designated as a federal holiday by the U.S. Congress in 1870. Fireworks have been a staple of Independence Day celebrations since 1776, symbolizing national pride and patriotism.
John Adams famously wrote to his wife Abigail that the occasion of American independence should be commemorated with “pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations” from one end of the continent to the other. His prediction foreshadowed the widespread fireworks displays that define modern celebrations.
By the early 20th century, parades and patriotic concerts had become central to holiday, with the Boston Pops Orchestra’s annual performance of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with live cannon fire becoming an enduring tradition.
Today, millions of Americans participate in Independence Day events, including public reading of the Declaration of Independence, reflecting the enduing importance of the nation’s founding principles.
As Albert Camus said, 'Freedom is nothing else but a chance to be better.”
Let us remember that our freedom came at a price, a price that continues to be paid today. Over 1.3 million U.S. military service members have lost their lives in major conflicts to protect this country’s freedom since the Revolutionary War. Our troops are stationed around the world, tirelessly protecting our country. Their dedication and sacrifice serve as a reminder that the liberty we enjoy is sustained by courage, vigilance, and unwavering commitment.
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13