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Independence Day

Definition

Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the United States on July 4, 1776. On this day, the Continental Congress declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject to British rule and were now united, free, and independent states.

Analogy

Think of Independence Day like a teenager's 18th birthday party. Just as turning 18 often symbolizes a person's transition into adulthood with new freedoms and responsibilities, so too did July 4th mark America's official "coming of age" moment when it declared itself free from Britain's control.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: The document adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It announced that the thirteen American colonies would regard themselves as independent states and no longer part of the British Empire.

Continental Congress: A convention of delegates from twelve out of thirteen North American British colonies that met during and after the American Revolution. They made key decisions about breaking away from Britain.

American Revolution: A war fought from 1775-1783 between Great Britain and its Thirteen Colonies in North America which declared independence as the United States of America.