John Adams wrote, in a letter to his wife:
The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
So why is Independence Day celebrated on July 4th? From the outset, Americans celebrated independence on July 4th, because it was the date shown on the much-publicized Declaration of Independence rather than on July 2nd, which was the date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of Congress.
Another bit of interesting trivia is the fact that most historians think that the Declaration was actually signed on August 2nd, 1776, nearly a month after its adoption and not on July 4th, as is commonly believed.
Finally, did you know that John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, both of whom had not only signed the Declaration of Independence but went on to serve as Presidents of the United States, died on July 4th, 1826. Another Founding Father who became President, James Monroe, died on July 4, 1831 becoming the third President in a row to die on Independence Day. (source: Wikipedia)
Take the Independence Day Trivia Quiz.
If you enjoyed this game, you might also enjoy the free, Independence Day-themed crosswords, word searches, jigsaw puzzles and more at Fourth of July Puzzles for Adults. We also have a number of themed puzzles and activities for children at Independence Day Puzzles for Kids .
