When was Independence Day first celebrated? A Grade 4 history lesson.

📚 What is Independence Day?

Independence Day, also called the Fourth of July, is a special day in the United States. It celebrates the day the United States declared its independence from Great Britain.

🗓️ When was Independence Day First Celebrated?

The first celebrations of Independence Day happened in 1777, which was just a year after the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. So, the very first celebrations were on July 4th, 1777!

🎉 How was it Celebrated Back Then?

• 🔔Toasting and Parades: People celebrated by toasting to the new nation and having parades. Imagine marching down the street with flags and music!
• 🎆Firing Cannons and Muskets: They also fired cannons and muskets, making lots of noise to show their excitement and freedom.
• 📜Reading the Declaration: Important people would read the Declaration of Independence aloud so everyone could remember why they were celebrating.
• 🕯️Bonfires and Fireworks: As night fell, they lit bonfires and set off early versions of fireworks! It must have been a dazzling sight.

🇺🇸 Why Do We Still Celebrate It?

We still celebrate Independence Day to remember the brave people who fought for our freedom. It's a day to show our love for our country and celebrate the values of liberty and equality.

🙋 Fun Fact!

Did you know that John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers, thought July 2nd would be the day Americans would celebrate their independence forever? That’s the day the Continental Congress voted for independence. But, the official declaration wasn't adopted until July 4th, so that became the big day!

✍️ A Timeline of Key Events

🤔 Test Your Knowledge!

1. 🎁 In what year did the first Independence Day celebrations take place?
2. 🎇 What are two ways people celebrated Independence Day in 1777?
3. 🏛️ What important document was read aloud during the celebrations?
4. 🗓️ What date is Independence Day celebrated on?