Summary
The Fourth of July is a key American holiday celebrating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It features fireworks, which have become a central element of the celebrations, despite being dangerous and causing many injuries each year.
Key Facts
- The Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
- The first celebration in Philadelphia happened a year later, but it wasn't widely celebrated until after the War of 1812.
- John Adams predicted fireworks would be part of future Independence Day celebrations back in 1776.
- Fireworks have been part of celebrations around the world, originally starting in ancient China.
- John Adams, who felt July 2 was the true date of independence, did not celebrate on July 4.
- Fireworks sales in the U.S. rose from $407 million in 2000 to $2.2 billion in 2024.
- Fireworks-related injuries still send thousands of people to the emergency room each year.
