Fourth of July is usually associated with fireworks, picnics, and anything red, white and blue. Even though we celebrate this joyous holiday with festivities, we shouldn’t forget what Independence Day truly represents.

On July 4, 1776 The United States of America adopted The Declaration of Independence and pronounced its independence from Great Britain. In 1941, Independence Day was declared as a federal holiday. During the American Revolution, the Thirteen Colonies legally separated from Great Britain on July 2, 1776. The Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence in June by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia. After they voted, Congress brought attention to the Declaration of Independence which was put together by the Committee of Five with Thomas Jefferson as the primary author. After Congress debated and revised the Declaration, they approved it on July 4^th.

As you celebrate your day of independence here are some interesting facts about the day:

• John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers of the Declaration of Independence later to serve as Presidents of the United States, died on the same day: July 4, 1826, which was the 50^th anniversary of the Declaration.

• Benjamin Franklin proposed the turkey as the national bird but was overruled by John Adams    and Thomas Jefferson, who wanted the bald eagle.

• The number of Americans who will spend the holiday at other people’s homes is approximately 41 million.

• The song “Yankee Doodle” was sung originally by British officers making fun of backwoods Americans.

• Approximately 150 million hot dogs are consumed on this day and the amount of chicken purchased the week before the holiday is 700 million pounds.

• There are more than 30 towns nationwide that have the word “Liberty” in their names.