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US Day

Last Updated : 22 Mar, 2024
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July 4, 1776, is referred to as the U.S. Day because it was the day on which the country was formed. This occurred as a result of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by Americans when they ended their British rule on this day in 1776.

In this article, we will examine the history and traditions of US Independence Day celebrations. The significance of Independence Day historically, some notable people who contributed to its establishment, and several other important themes will be discussed.

Historical Significance of US Day

July 4th, 1776 is not an ordinary day. It marked years of simmering tensions reaching their climax. In this section, we explore key events like war debts and rising resentment over taxation that eventually culminated in thirteen colonies declaring independence from Great Britain.

  • 1754-1763: The Lasting Impact of the Indian War; Following this war Britain found itself burdened with a £136 million debt.
  • 1763: Limits on Westward Expansion; The Declaration of 1763 prevented colonists from expanding beyond the Appalachian Mountains. This decision infuriated settlers wanting land and opportunities, intensifying their sense of alienation from interests.
  • 1765: Resistance to Taxation without Representation Broke Out; When the Stamp Act was introduced directly taxing the colonies without representation, there was an immediate outpouring of anger. This led to a protest rallying cry “No taxation without representation!” which highlighted the grievance.
  • 1767: It escalated when these regulations charged the colonized people for using tea among others. Thus, this duty was seen by settlers as another means of unfairly gaining money from them without giving them a voice in policy making.
  • 1773: The Te­a Act sparked a rebellion in 1773. Bostonians tosse­d 342 chests of tea into the harbor. This e­vent, the Boston Tea Party, cost £18,000.
  • 1774: In 1774, Britain re­sponded with the Intolerable­ Acts. These aimed to punish and control Colonial Ame­rica after the Party. Howeve­r, the Acts backfired. Instead of subjugating the­ colonies, they united the­m further. The First Continental Congre­ss formed in 1774 as another union against Britain’s harsh measure­s.
  • 1775-1776: From Unity to Independence; The Battle of Lexington and Concord signified commencement of American Revolution (1775). The Second Continental Congress formed a unified military and after years of growing unrest it ultimately declared independence with the Declaration of Independence formally ending ties with Great Britain on July 4th 1776.

Founding Members of the United States

It’s not one person who builds a country, America. Now we’ll discuss about all the primary founders, from philosophers, revolutionary war heroes to their notable contributions that led to the formation of the early American government and had a profound impact on the future of the nation to be. Let us see to the point wise role of the individuals who are behind the inventions and discoveries.

George Washington (1732-1799)

An image of a distinguished military hero during the Revolutionary War time, George Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States, which set a standard for peaceful swap of power and set the office of the presidency.

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)

Thomas Jefferson authored the Declaration of Independence of 1776, and this gave him a rightful place to influence the destiny of every individual of the United States as the cornerstones of its identity. After that, he also became the third president of the country which means he contributed in the Louisiana Purchase, and made the U.S to be twice large.

John Adams (1735-1826)

John Adams was bound to better the situation in the country for him, he subsequently made use of the democratic powers and offered assistance during the civil war which was very significant. He was the second president of the nation, and he also did so much to enable the country to maintain its diplomatic tie among other countries.

Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790)

A jack-of-many-trades, Franklin was a political advocate and a man of science. He aimed to bolster colonial unity and requested aid from foreign nations during the war. He served an essential role in the writing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, participating for the conservation of the system of the nation.

James Madison (1751-1836)

Madison is referred to be the “Father of the Constitution”. It cannot be denied that he played a critical role at the time of the Constitutional Convention, where he was proposing for a strong national government, which was to be linked with checks and balances. He assumed the role of fourth chief executive.

Alexander Hamilton (1755-1804)

Economist and a prominent man in this time, Hamilton supported financial power and created the national bank that was the foundation for the modern America’s economic system. Early in his writings he was advocating for a central government with great power, a talking point he was arguing with Thomas Jefferson concerning which shape the early political landscape of the US was to be.

Ways of Celebrating US Day by the Americans

It looks at the traditions and customs of the Fourth of July and reveals the way in which American people celebrate their national day.

  • Family Gathering and Games: 4th July is a day when families and friends get together for bargain and picnic parties in their backyard, and fun games in town. For the first of July its a day we all guarantee our independency and encourages the sense of being an American.
  • Feasts and Fireworks: Backyards and parks become open-air kitchens with barbecues crackling away and picnic blankets strewn about. As night approaches, the sky lights up with beautiful fireworks that go back to 18th century America.
  • Parades and Patriotism: There are vibrant parades in towns and cities which have marching bands and colorful floats as well as veterans who proudly fly US flags. People from various backgrounds gather to sing patriotic songs and shout slogans expressing their love for America.
  • Public Participation with Flags: Stars & stripes flag of America covers homes adorning streets as well. Citizens wear clothes that are red, white or blue to show their patriotism towards their country.
  • Local Spirit & Community Involvement: Local customs make every celebration special. Every society has its own flavor added into it like from small-town picnics to big boat races where communities showcase their character.

Evolution of Democracy: From Colony to Republic

In this regard, the Declaration of Independence, which is focused on “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”, became the important values of democratic society while voting rights were a preserve of white property owning men initially.

  • A Constitution Is Born (1787): The American constitution drafted in 1787 established a framework for representative democracy, creating checks and balances between different branches. It has also defined how to change it over time through amendments.
  • Peaceful Change of Power (1800): John Adams leaves office in 1800 with a farewell note affirming that people – not monarchs – elect their leaders. And that people replace their leaders.
  • Civil Rights Move­ment (1964-1965): In the 1960s, a powerful move­ment fought against racial discrimination and segregation. Le­d by inspiring figures like Martin Luther King Jr., this struggle­ aimed to dismantle unjust Jim Crow laws. Two key laws e­merged: The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the­ Voting Rights Act of 1965. Their purpose? To ensure­ equal voting rights for all citizens, shattering barrie­rs that denied basic free­doms.
  • Expanding the Circle of Democracy (Ongoing Process): However, another fact is that it is an ongoing struggle of perfecting democracy. This is evident in matters such as voter suppression and campaign finance reform where there is a constant battle to ensure the country has a truly representative democracy.
  • A Model for the World: America’s democracy has been a beacon for other countries to follow, nevertheless these challenges with inequality as well as political polarization have raised concerns too. The development of American democracy remains work in progress on watch by global eyes.

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Conclusion

The 4th of July- that’s what the US Day is called- is not just parades and fireworks. This is a celebration of the ideas that brought forth the country and serves as a reminder that there are still many miles ahead to be traveled in search for a better union. The American tale, from the struggle for freedom to democracy’s continuous change, is all about durability, adaptability, and pursuit of liberty.

Thus, on Independence Day as Americans look back at their past they also open up opportunities for future generations where every one will have equal chances and fair play in life.

FAQs – US Day

What is the difference between the U.S. and the USA?

There’s almost no difference. U.S and USA both abbreviate “United States of America.” They mean the same thing.

Who was the first president of the United States?

George Washington has been the first president of America and he took his oath on April 30, 1789.

How was the US formed?

The 13 British colonies in America didn’t think they were getting a fair deal so they fought a war for freedom and became the United States in 1776.

How long did Britain rule America?

Britain ruled over what would become the Thirteen colonies for about 177 years, from around 1607 to the American revolution in 1776.

Is there 52 states in the United States of America?

No, there are 50 that make up the United States of America.



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