America's Celebration of Independence: What You Need to Know

America's Celebration of Independence: What You Need to Know
By Robert D Clay

How are you celebrating Independence Day this year?

If you're like most Americans, you're probably looking forward to firing up the grill, watching fireworks, and generally having a good time with family and friends. And let's not forget the Independence Day parades.

All those things are great-we all look forward to having some downtime at the end of a crazy workweek. Not to spoil the fun, but beyond the fireworks and the merriment is the true reason why we celebrate Independence Day. It's not because of the food on the table or the sound of laughter everywhere (although these are great too.)

What's the big deal with Independence Day, anyway?

Every Fourth of July, Americans commemorate the liberation of the United States from Great Britain. Imagine what Americans from the late 1700s must have felt after their emancipation. It's inexplicable in most ways, and thus, the event is worth commemorating year after year.

Think of Independence Day as America's birth as a free nation. After years of being under the British rule, the United States has finally broken free.

But America's Independence was not actually declared on the Fourth of July. The Second Continental Congress declared independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1772, but it was on July 4 of the same year when the current Congress president of the time, John Hancock, signed the Declaration of Independence.

It sounds confusing, and many Americans have followed the incorrect date for more than 200 years. However, tradition continues and we celebrate America's independence on the day we have always celebrated it.

Time to go out and have fun

Up to this day, the United States hold Independence Day as one of the most important events in history-to some, it's probably even more monumental than Christmas Day. And it's no wonder: Americans are among the most patriotic people in the world.

Want to see the evidence? Just go out on the streets on the 4th of July, and you'll surely see people brandishing their own brand of patriotism, from the United States flags in front of their houses to the red, white, and blue paint streaked on their faces.

Independence Day also happens to coincide with summer, so there are plenty of reasons for people to go out and have fun. And just like any other celebration, food will always be on the table. Grilled food, to be exact.

In fact, many take grilling seriously. So seriously that people buy all sorts of grilling accessories that makes barbecuing an art form.

As with any festivity, the Fourth of July is also a great time for gift giving. More specifically, it's a great time to give patriotic gifts-gifts that capture Americans' patriotic spirit.

It's not peculiar to send out gifts during Independence Day. In fact, the gesture will be very much appreciated. From holiday gift baskets and patriotic-themed clothing to aircraft models and gaming accessories, there's no limit to what you can give in commemoration of America's day of independence.

This Independence Day, send the gift that truly captures the American spirit. Wooden aircraft models are perfect for those who want to take home a piece of history with them.

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