Every Fourth of July Americans spend the holiday with family and friends enjoying barbecues picnics and of course, fireworks. However, according to Knoxweb, the Fourth of July is much more than hot dogs and hamburgers.
Below are a few fun facts that you may not know about America’s favorite holiday.
The Eagle VS the Turkey
Benjamin Franklin wanted a turkey as the National Bird. However, his idea was seen as ludicrous and voted out by Thomas Jefferson and John Adams who both ridiculed the idea.
America’s Independence
Because Thomas Jefferson was considered an eloquent writer, he was charged with writing and putting together the first draft of the Declaration of Independence. The document has 86 changes made with the final draft being signed on July 4, 1776. However, the Declaration of Independence was voted in on July 2, 1776.
Stars and Stripes
The first stars on the first American Flag were formed in a circle so that all of the colonies would be equal.
Betsy Ross
There is some controversy as to whether or not Betsy Ross was real. Some say she was fictitious while others insist that she sewed the flag in either May or June 1776 after a secret Continental Congress meeting held at her home.
Public Reception Tradition
Thomas Jefferson started the Fourth of July public reception tradition in July of 1801. The reception at the White House has been held every year ever since.
Coincidence?
Presidents Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe all passed away on the Fourth of July. Jefferson and Adams within hours of one another back in 1826.
Much like Congress of Today
The 56 signers did not sign the Declaration of Independence at the same time. It wasn’t signed on the Fourth of July either. The official signing of the Declaration of Independence was on August 3, 1776.
Kept a Secret
The identities of the people who signed the Declaration of Independence were kept secret from the public for over six months. This was done to protect the men who signed. If Independence weren’t granted it would be seen as treason resulting in the death of the signers.
Uncle Sam
Samuel Wilson is responsible for Uncle Sam, which started in 1812. The meat packer distributed meat to the United States army and stamped it with U.S. Someone said it stood for, “Uncle Sam,” and the joke stuck.
Hotdogs
America eats about 160 million hot dogs and over 700 million pounds of chicken every Fourth of July.
Flags and Fireworks
An astounding 88 percent of flags purchased in the United States are made in China. Fireworks account for $109 billion dollars for the American Holiday.
This Fourth of July thank the founding fathers for our great country when you enjoy that burger or dog. Let Freedom Ring and have a Safe and Happy Fourth of July!