A Brief History Lesson

For some reason when I think of the Fourth of July, there are four things that come to mind – God’s grace, my grandson Canon’s birthday, barbeque, and Bruce Springsteen. Although he did a more somber song for this day entitled “Shut Out The Light” inspired by meeting Ron Kovic who wrote the bestseller Born on the Fourth of July. The song that resonates in my mind is Born In The USA one of Springsteen’s most iconic songs. The song is not an anti-war song but tells the story of a troubled return home of a Vietnam veteran.

We celebrate the Fourth of July — also known as Independence Day, because of America’s freedom from the British Empire some 250 years ago. A document signed by the first Continental Congress; delegates from each of the thirteen colonies. However, this Declaration of Independence was mostly written by Thomas Jefferson our nation’s third president.

So where did all of this food, fireworks, and sparklers come from? Would you believe a mock funeral celebrating the death of King George III who was England’s king at the time? George Washington, on the very first celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, gave extra rum to soldiers of the Revolutionary War. Then cannons in Philadelphia were fired thirteen times to represent the thirteen colonies and in concert were the Sons of Liberty who put on a fireworks show in Boston.

After the War of 1812, Independence Day celebrations grew. So in 1870, it was designated a federal holiday. And has somehow managed to morph into the celebrations of fireworks, family reunions, picnics, barbeques, and parades.

A little 4th of July Trivia. 1) Every year on July 4, descendants of the Declaration of Independence signers tap the Liberty Bell 13 times. The tradition was created as a way to honor the original 13 colonies. 2) There have been 27 versions of the American flag: The original flag featured 13 stars and stripes to represent the 13 colonies. Today’s American flag features 50 stars and 13 stripes. 3) Bristol, Rhode Island has the longest-running 4th of July parade that dates back to 1777.

This day as we all sit down to our picnic tables, dinner tables, or wherever our gatherings might be let us not forget the many wars that have been fought so far and the sacrifices that were made for this “Independence.” Being born in the USA is not an entitlement but a humble privilege that many other countries have never been blessed to see.

God, source of all freedom, this day is bright with the memory of those who declared life and liberty are your gift to every human being. Help us to continue the good work begun long ago. Make our vision clear and our will strong: that only in human solidarity will we find liberty, and justice only in the honor that belongs to every life on earth. Turn our hearts toward the family of nations: to understand the ways of others, to offer friendship, and to find safety only in the common good of all. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Happy 4th of July to all our readers and supporters! Ironically our grandson Canon turns 4 years old today. Happy birthday! Nana loves you sooo much!

Prayer from Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers

© Rhema International 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission, from this blog’s author and/or owner, is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Rhema International.