I wanted to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July! I wanted to share some interesting and perhaps lesser-known facts about July 4th that many may not know.
1. Independence Was Declared on July 2nd, Not July 4th
Many people assume that the Declaration of Independence was signed and formalized on July 4th, 1776. In reality, the Continental Congress voted for independence on July 2nd. John Adams even wrote in a letter to his wife that July 2nd would be the most memorable date in the history of America. However, after editing the Declaration of Independence, the final version was approved on July 4th, and that’s the date that ended up being celebrated.
2. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson Died on the Same Day – July 4th
In an extraordinary coincidence, two of the most prominent figures in America’s fight for independence—John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—both died on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the Declaration of Independence was adopted. Adams’ last words were reportedly, “Thomas Jefferson survives,” not knowing that Jefferson had passed away a few hours earlier. Their deaths on such a significant date deepened the sense of symbolism tied to the holiday.
3. July 4th Wasn’t a Federal Holiday Until 1870
Despite its significance, the 4th of July didn’t become an official federal holiday until 1870, nearly 100 years after the signing of the Declaration. Congress included it as part of a bill to officially recognize national holidays. In 1938, Congress made sure that all federal employees would receive a paid holiday on Independence Day.
