Independence Day

Is More Than Just A Holiday

If there is anything beneficial to “taking a break” in the markets it centers around the celebration of Independence Day. The markets are only “open” in these United States for three-and-one-half days which gives all of us time to reflect on the origins of our great country.

We’re blessed. Regardless of whether your family arrived on the Mayflower or recently legally became a citizen, there are many reasons to appreciate just being an American. I’ve been blessed to live through decades of celebration and change. I “witnessed” the bicentennial celebrations of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution up in Boston Harbor. The “rockets red glare” was apparent and so were the thanks of people who knew what “freedom” meant to their lives.

Independence Day History

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the Declaration of Independence. It was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This historic document declared the thirteen American colonies free and independent states, no longer subject to British rule.

The path to actual independence began with growing tensions between the American colonies and the British government over issues like ‘taxation without representation’ and British interference in colonial affairs. Major events that fueled the revolutionary spirit included the Boston Massacre in 1770, the Boston Tea Party in 1773, and the implementation of the Intolerable Acts in 1774.

The First Continental Congress convened in 1774, bringing together delegates from twelve of the thirteen colonies to discuss a collective response to British policies. The Second Continental Congress met in 1775, eventually moving towards what we have as a formal declaration of independence.

A committee was then formed to draft the Declaration of Independence, with Thomas Jefferson as the principal author. The other members included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. After a lengthy period of debate and revision, the “final draft” was presented to Congress. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence. Just two days later, on July 4, they formally adopted the Declaration of Independence.

Independence Day signifies the “birth” of the United States as a nation and represents the core values of freedom, democracy, and the pursuit of happiness. The Declaration of Independence laid the foundation for American democracy, emphasizing individual rights and liberties.

Independence Day is celebrated with various traditions, including fireworks, parades, concerts, barbecues, and patriotic displays. Many display the American flag, and there are often public readings of the Declaration of Independence. Fireworks have become a quintessential part of the celebration, symbolizing the "rockets' red glare" from the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner."

The holiday is also a time for Americans to “reflect” on their history, honor those who have fought for the country’s freedom, and consider the “ongoing” journey of fulfilling the ideals of liberty and justice for all.

Independence Day remains a “unifying” event across the United States, with local and national festivities bringing people together. Cities often host fireworks displays, such as those in New York City, Washington D.C., and Boston. The holiday also marks the peak of summer activities, with families and friends gathering for outdoor events and recreational activities.

What It Means To Me

Lou Gehrig said it correctly as he retired from baseball saying “I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth." I feel the same way when it comes to being an American. My family arrived here in the early 20th century. Having served the Russian empire for years, when it was time to leave they did. Some made it to our shores over the Bering Strait through Canada, some through Ellis Island but regardless, they had the ability and desire to get here.

They worked so that my life was better. They sacrificed so that the generations who followed them lived the “American” dream. That dream exists today and must always be available for everyone. My ancestors arrived and thrived legally. They earned their right to be part of this great nation, something that must not change. Unfortunately in today’s day and age everything is subject to interpretation except for one thing. This is the greatest country on the face of the earth. That is something we will never allow to change.