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Happy Independence Day!! July 4th is a day to celebrate the United States’ independence from Great Britain. July 4, 1776 is significant because it was when the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. Written by a committee led by Thomas Jefferson, the document was signed by people from all the 13 British colonies in North America (National Geographic Kids). As these colonies grew, the people who lived there thought the British government treated them unfairly. The colonists rebelled and fought for their independence in what is called the American Revolutionary War. The British government rejected the Declaration, so the colonists continued to fight until they finally defeated Great Britain in 1783. The war lasted 8 years!

The Declaration is an important document about self-governance and human rights. One of the most famous sentences is: “that all people are created equally and have rights that include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Many Americans celebrate Independence Day with parades, barbecues, and fireworks. This year, 2025, marks 250 years since the beginning of the American Revolution with its first battle having occurred in Lexington and Concord in 1775! Over the next few years, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Revolution. Many states, museums, and historic cites are commemorating the anniversary with special events and other education programs. Be sure to check them out if you can!  The Museum of the American Revolution is a great resource!