In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. The Congress had voted in favor of independence from Great Britain on July 2 but did not actually complete the process of revising the Declaration of Independence, originally drafted by Thomas Jefferson in consultation with fellow committee members John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and William Livingston, until two days later.
Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, picnics, baseball games, political speeches and ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States.
On this Independence Day, while you are relaxing with family and friends, please take a moment to remember those that have fought to defend our freedom over the years and to make this country a special place to live.