July 4, 1776, the greatest day in the history of the United States, was the day of declaration and proclamation of independence from Great Britain.
John Adams wrote to his wife:
The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
But it was on the 4th of July that Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence was adopted by Congress.
Today is a day that many families get together to have outdoor picnics and barbecues, play softball and gather to watch fireworks. It truly is as John Adams suggested.
Hopefully this is also a day that we all stop and think about this great country in which we live and give thanks for all those who sacrificed their lives, in addition to the young men and women who today continue to give of themselves, so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have been given. We should remind ourselves to take a moment in our day, look around at what we have, and be thankful. We are truly blessed.
