Independence Day is one of the most significant celebrations in the United States because it reflects American values and reminds us of the crucial period in national history. Indeed, the second part of the eighteenth century was revolutionary as America abolished its dependence on the British Crown and established a sovereign country (Library of Congress, n. d.). This paper aims to explore the history behind the celebration and discuss why it is highly valued by Americans nationwide.
The Fourth of July unites all Americans as it is represented through parades, decorations, family gatherings, speeches, and fireworks, occurring in every town regardless of its inhabitants’ political or spiritual views. The celebration is dedicated to the pronouncement of The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America that happened at the Congress meeting in Pennsylvania on July 4, 1776 (Library of Congress, n. d.). Since the Great Discovery, North America’s lands belonged to the British Empire, which organized mining, production, trading, and slavery. The Crown provided American colonists with relatively high autonomy, making them pay taxes; however, in the 1760s, Britain passed regulations to get more economic control in the foreign country, resulting in major protests. The Stamp Act of 1765 and Townshend duties of 1767 led to colonists’ refusal to follow the laws, which disrupted the American economy, and inhabitants were also against the increased payments to the Empire (Library of Congress, n. d.). The disobedience resulted in the British government’s attempts to reduce the states’ autonomy and send the military to end the Americans’ protests.
The American Revolutionary War was the outcome of the tensions between Britain and the Thirteen Colonies united to defeat their enemy and succeeded in it, proclaiming the sovereignty on July 4, 1776. The military conflict became a crucial part of the States’ history because the common enemy enabled them to develop strong cooperative counties with the same values and shared recourses. Furthermore, the Declaration of Independence claimed that “all men are created equal,” the line that became crucial for American culture and liberal rights development (Library of Congress, n. d.). The Fourth of July is celebrated with honor by Americans because the historical events behind it display unique national values, such as freedom and equality.
Reference
Library of Congress (n. d.). Today in history – July 4.