WRITING.- The 4th of July is the national holiday par excellence in the United States. The streets of the country are filled with American flags to commemorate a special day: independence Day.
What happened on that date for this celebration to take place today?
It all goes back to 1776, the year the United States became an independent country. Throughout the 16th century, some European powers such as the British Empire crossed the Atlantic Ocean and established their colonies on the American continent, where they established their own government and imposed themselves on the indigenous population.
The English established a total of 13 British colonies in North America: Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
The colonies were ruled by governments that were actually thousands of miles away. In this case, England’s control over her colonies began to create certain differences between the English and the Americans, who did not enjoy representation in the British Parliament and could hardly make decisions. However, the trigger for the rebellion was something much more mundane: taxes.
The Tea Party of 1773: the start of the rebellion
After the Seven Years’ War (1756-1763) against France, England began to have many economic problems: the country was practically bankrupt. For this reason, the British Empire decided to impose a series of taxes on the American colonies to raise more money.
The Metropolis (which is how the British government was known) raised taxes on sugar, stamp and tea, something that caused great discomfort among the inhabitants of the colonies, who had no chance at a political level to prevent this resolution. Thus, violent incidents and popular mobilizations by the colonies began.
Among these mobilizations, one of the most recognized was the tea riotwhich occurred in Boston on December 16, 1773. That day, American colonists dumped large quantities of British tea into the water in protest against taxes. This event laid the foundations for the rebellion that broke out later.
July 4, 1776: Declaration of Independence
After the tea party and other mobilizations, the discontent of the British colonies was so great that it led to a war: The War of Independence pitted the 13 British North American colonies against the Kingdom of Great Britain.
On July 4, 1776, in the midst of the conflict, 56 United States Congressmen approved the United States Declaration of Independence, a text written by Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. Even so, Independence did not end the war with the British, which lasted until 1783.
He Philadelphia Continental Congress then unanimously approved that the 13 North American colonies that were part of the territories of Britain on the American continent they were officially independent from that moment on, a reason for celebrating every 4th of July.
How is Independence Day celebrated in the United States?
One of the most common traditions is the performance of parades. In many cities and towns, parades are organized through the main streets, with marching bands, floats, military veterans, and community groups participating in them. These parades are often colorful and festive, drawing large crowds.
Another fundamental part of the celebrations are the fireworks. On the night of the 4th of July, fireworks shows are held across the country. These impressive light and color shows light up the sky and are a beloved tradition for many. Families and friends gather to enjoy the fireworks together and have a special time.
In addition, many people celebrate the Independence Day with outdoor barbecues and grills. It’s common for families and friends to gather in parks, backyards, or beaches to enjoy a cookout. Hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled meats, salads and other typical dishes of American food are prepared.
Dressing also turns festive, with many donning clothing in America’s patriotic colors of red, white and blue. Many people decorate their homes with American flags and other decorative items alluding to Independence Day.
