The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.

 

Those words were written by John Adams  to his wife Abigail. He can be forgiven for missing the date by 2 days because July 2nd was the day the Continental Congress passed the resolution of independence. The Declaration of Independence was the document written to explain the decision. The terms and wording of the Declaration were debated and revised for 2 days before finally being ratified on July 4, 1776.

                   Happy Birthday America!