Independence Day

History of Independence Day

When the Revolutionary War broke out in April 1775, few colonists desired complete independence from Great Britain, and those who did were considered radical. By the middle of the following year many more colonists had come to favor independence.

History.com notes that on July 2, 1775, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Richard Henry Lee’s resolution for independence in a near-unanimous vote. On July 4, the Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence.

In June 1776, representatives of the 13 colonies talked about a resolution that would declare their independence from Great Britain. On July 2 of the same year, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence. Two days later Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. After the Revolutionary War, Americans continued to commemorate Independence Day every year in celebrations that allowed the new nation’s emerging political leaders to address citizens and create a feeling of unity.

According to History.com, July 4 has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution.

National Holiday

In 1870, the U.S. Congress made July 4 a federal holiday known as Independence Day. In 1941, all federal employees began receiving a paid day off for Independence Day. The political importance of the holiday would eventually decline, but Independence Day remains an important national holiday and a symbol of patriotism to many American citizens. Fourth of July has now become a major focus for friends and family to get together and celebrate with fireworks and barbecues.

Next time you're in Wichita visit our 1843 print of the Declaration of Independence here at the Museum of World Treasures. We are open 10 a.m. - 5 a.m. this Independence Day!

   Sources: History.com