The Fourth of July has finally arrived, and communities all throughout the nation are coming together to celebrate. With plenty of fireworks, hot dogs, and festivities in-tow, this patriotic celebration oft boasts some of the summer’s very best shindigs. But when we strip back the parties and pool days, what does this holiday really mean? Today, let’s examine the history of the Fourth of July and why this foundational day laid the groundwork for the nation that we call home.

Known as Independence Day, the Fourth of July is in many ways the official beginning of the United States as we know it. Prior to its independence from the British, the United States was first established as a colony of the British monarchy. As a colony of the British government, the United States had certain obligations it had to fulfill. Citizens of the newly formed United States were under the jurisdiction of the British king and as such, also owed increasingly heightened taxes to the British government. As the colonies continued to develop and create new communities, frustration began to boil over as the colonist sought self-governance and autonomy from their counterparts across the pond. Taxation without representation became the primary grievance for the soon-to-be American people, and would ultimately serve as the catalyst for the nation’s eventual independence.

While growing sentiments of rebellion and resistance against the British government festered for many moons, the culmination of this movement towards freedom took place on July 4th, 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was officially signed into being. Prior to its passage, the Continental Congress had come together to discuss the notion of American sovereignty from the British government. A massive move for the nation’s establishment, the Declaration of Independence is regarded as America’s founding document. The Declaration was adopted unanimously by the 56 members of the Second Continental Congress, and with its signing, officially established our nation as a sovereign entity and no longer under the rule of the British crown.

Beyond its historical significance, the Declaration of Independence also laid the moral framework through which our nation would establish its ideals. In the Declaration of Independence, these immortal words are written: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed”. While today we take these ideas for granted, the notion of a nation established with equality in mind for all was a profoundly progressive foundation on which to build the country. While in many ways we are still enthralled in the fight for life and liberty for all, we may remain encouraged that with each passing generation, we take one step closer to true equity for all.

As we celebrate the independence of our nation today, it is imperative that we reflect on the history which led us here, so that we may confidently forge ahead as we shape our collective future. From here in Trenton to communities all throughout the nation, may today’s celebrations remind us how lucky we are to live in a land with life, liberty, and justice for all. Happy Independence Day!

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