Fourth Of July Quiz

Independence Day: America's Birthday

The Fourth of July - Independence Day - Is the United States' most important national holiday, celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence from Britain on July 2, 1776, but the official adoption and signing of the written declaration - Drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson - Took place two days later. John Adams believed July 2 would be celebrated as the national holiday, and wrote to his wife Abigail that it "ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, bonfires and illuminations."

The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 delegates to the Continental Congress. Its famous opening includes one of the most celebrated sentences in political history: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The primary author, Thomas Jefferson, later became the third President of the United States. Explore more American history with the American History Quiz, or test your 13-colonies knowledge with the 13 Colonies Quiz.

Modern Fourth of July celebrations typically include fireworks, barbecues, parades, concerts, and family gatherings. The tradition of fireworks on Independence Day dates back to 1777, when cannons and fireworks were used to mark the first anniversary. Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held annually on Coney Island in New York, has become a popular July 4th tradition. Americans consume approximately 150 million hot dogs on Independence Day - More than on any other day of the year.