On a friend’s Facebook status update today she said that 58% of Americans do not know the true meaning of the Fourth of July, aka, Independence Day. Naturally many people were outraged by her status and it made me want to dig a little deeper. The study that she was referring to was done by a Marist Poll. This study found that:
- 58% of Americans new that America declared independence in 1776
- 26% were unsure of when America declared independence.
- 16% mentioned another date.
- Only 31% of people under 30 answered the correct date.
- 25% of individuals polled did not know which country America declared independence from.
Those numbers are alarming because it seems that America declaring independence from Great Britain in 1776 should be something all American citizens should know. As I surfed the net to learn more, I found a wonderful video by Mark Dice showcasing how clueless some people really are about the 4th of July, I couldn’t help but ask myself, what else is unknown about the 4th of July?
Declaration Signing
People who do know that we are celebrating the US independence from Great Britain probably have visions of all of the signers of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776 in the sweltering DC heat and humidity, Thomas Jefferson standing over it with a “so what do you think” look on his face, and everyone patting one another on the back. Maybe that’s not what you envisioned, but that is how I’ve always pictured it. In all actuality independence was declared on July 2nd, not the 4th. Twelve of the thirteen colonies agreed to the declaration on the 4th, however, actual signing didn’t even happen at all during the month of July. It began in August, with John Hancock’s famously huge signature, and wrapping up in late November. The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 men In Philadelphia more than likely. So, my picture was so wrong.
The Holiday
We all know what the 4th of July means fireworks, parades, barbeques, camping, patriotism, friends, family, and fun!!! July 4th became a federal national holiday in 1941. Celebrations have always consisted of fireworks, food, parades, patriotism, and fun. Most recently we honor veterans and those serving in the military.
Fun Facts
Truthfully, finding accurate facts about the 4th of July was difficult. Most “facts” about July 4th are not “facts” at all, mostly folk lore that we may have taken to be truths. However, I found some of these facts to be very interesting.
- US population in 1776 was 2.5 Million; today the population is 311.7 Million.
- $190.7 Million in fireworks are imported from China yearly to the US.
- Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on the same July 4, 1826.
- The United States of America is 235 years young this July 4th.
- The largest firework display for 2011 is Macy’s Firework Spectacular in New York, NY. Luckily anyone can watch this display on NBC.
Patriotism
Being patriotic is a popular theme, obviously, on the 4th of July. People love to say they are patriotic, but know very little about patriotism. Being patriotic is more than simply waving a flag, thanking the troops, and saying you love the USA. Without a doubt all of those activities are very important and have their place. However, just as this blog post points out that a good portion of Americans are uninformed about the history of the USA. Additionally I would hazard a guess that many are clueless about current events happening in the USA. It is important to remember that being informed means being patriotic. A fun easy way to be informed about what is happening with our government, legislators, and feelings of fellow Americans is to join http://thevotereffect.com. Not only do you become informed, but you also have the opportunity to vote on issues and bills. Once you vote for a bill your vote is sent onto your elected official so that they are made aware of how you would vote on that bill. This site is patriotic in an authentic way that is revolutionizing politics in America. Join today, it is fun and free.
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