Break out the BBQ and unfurl your flags, Independence Day is here! Founding Father John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, that he believed the holiday would be celebrated with parades, sports, shows, and illuminations. After 247 years, Americans are keeping those traditions alive, though not on the date that Adams anticipated. The Second Continental Congress voted to approve the independence of the United States of America on July 2, 1776, but formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4. That date, enshrined on the Declaration document, became the one we observe today. If you"re looking for a grand way to celebrate, journey to New York City for views of their annual fireworks show and the Empire State Building lit up to match in red, white, and blue.
Happy Independence Day!
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
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Mountain hare hopping into Lunar New Year
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Spring equinox
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Pamukkale, Turkey
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Stompin’ with the Big Chief
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Penguin Awareness Day
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In celebration of cats
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National Hispanic Heritage Month
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Don t forget—it’s World Elephant Day
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National Park Week: Olympic National Park, Washington
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The Great Glen
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A Carpathian Christmas celebration
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Río Negro, Amazon basin, Brazil
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When an ideal microclimate gives you lemons…
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Endangered Species Day
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National Panda Day
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Martimoaapa Mire Reserve, Finland
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Arbor Day
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Gray seal pup, Norfolk, England
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Reflections on Memorial Day
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Hey, who’s in charge here?
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Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
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A predator at risk
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Honoring the rangers on World Ranger Day
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Salmon return to the Copper River
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Harvest season begins
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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Atrani, Amalfi Coast, Italy
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Cenote near Puerto Aventuras, Mexico
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Aurora borealis
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Let the harvest begin
Bing Wallpaper Gallery

