Congress created the first federal holidays in 1870. Chronologically speaking, it was January 1st, New Year’s Day, July 4th, as the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday of November, and December 25th as Christmas Day. These holidays were originally only recognized as paid days off for federal employees within the District of Columbia.
Interestingly, via a little research, there is some ambiguity about the 4th. Though the “Fourth of July” was in use before 1800 we almost always refer to this holiday as the 4th of July, but history buffs will recall the more common use of Independence Day. Not as common, but also at the turn of the 18th century, it was also called Independent Day.
Funny, or perhaps ironically, the Continental Congress voted for independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776. We were already at war with Britain since April 19, 1775. Later in his writings John Adams would note that July 2nd would be remembered in the annals of American history and be marked with celebration and fireworks.
It was 2 days later on July 4th that the Declaration was approved. After its initial purpose (declaring independence) was fulfilled, the document was somewhat ignored after the American Revolution. It would take a few years before we’d again pay attention to this amazing document and particular attention to that second sentence and its heartfelt declaration of individual human rights.
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Hope you all are having a great holiday weekend and no matter what you call it, the 4th of July or Independence Day, give thanks and enjoy! Happy Birthday America!
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