The meaning behind the Fireworks
The 4th of July weekend is upon us and time to celebrate the holiday with family and friends. Outdoor festivities, BBQ’s and fireworks are what many of us typically enjoy….or perhaps your choice is a long, lazy weekend in a hammock with a good book. However you chose to celebrate, let’s not forget the meaning behind the celebration.
Thomas Jefferson, the principle author, and the “Committee of Five” actually drafted the Declaration of Independence on July 2, 1776 and was it signed by John Hancock, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, among others, on July 4th. During the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress declared that the thirteen existing colonies were forming a new nation called ” The United States of America”, and it sealed the deal on our independence from the tyrannical British King George III. So here’s a shout out to the incredible foresight and bravery exhibited by Founding Father, the Honorable Mr. Jefferson and his cohorts. But most importantly; God bless those that fought and died for our freedom!
Now for the sake of humor and lightheartedness, here are some interesting and fun facts.
- 1 in 8 signers of the Declaration were educated at Harvard.
- The majority of American flags and fireworks sold in the US are made in China.
- Roughly 150 millions hot dogs will be consumed in the US on the 4th.
- Three US Presidents have passed away on this date.
- The words “Under God” were added to the Pledge of Allegiance in 1954.
- The National Anthem was originally a British drinking song.
Now, fire up those grills, put on a cute patriotic outfit, rustle up a spread of America’s favorite foods and enjoy the fireworks!
As for me, I will be doing a combination of hammock surfing and cooking some healthy versions of those said favorites! There will definitely not be any hot dog eating contests at our celebration (no offense to you hot dog lovers!). The focus will be on all the wonderful local, organic produce Summer has to offer. Vine ripe tomatoes, seasonal peaches, fresh corn on the cob, and juicy watermelon.
Happy and safe Fourth of July everyone!
