[July 04, 2015] Driving over the Hudson River on the George Washington Bridge between New York and New Jersey, one can see the world’s largest free-flying American Flag hanging from the iron support beams. The tradition dates back 65 years to let everyone know that the people here are proud of the flag and what it stands for. 1 Independence Day is a popular holiday anywhere … but New Yorkers are especially proud of the 4th of July and show it by flying Old Glory2 and spending time with the family.
We commemorate the Declaration of Independence in this day on the 4th of July each year. The Declaration was a profound statement publically announcing that the thirteen American colonies (then at war with Great Britain) were now independent states and no longer a part of the British Empire. Approved by Congress on July 4, 1776, the signers of the Declaration showed considerable bravery as it put their property, their family, and their lives at great risk.
“The day will be most memorable 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 solemnized with pomp and parade, bonfires and illuminations (fireworks) from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.” – John Adams3
People of all ages love fireworks and have been popular for celebrations in the U.S. since the time of the American Revolution. Today, we will celebrate with a great show of fireworks, parades, and many other ways. Our respect goes out to those who framed the Declaration of Independence and the many who sacrificed all to maintain it.
Happy 4th of July to everyone!
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- http://blog.cvsflags.com/flag-history/george-washington-bridge-worlds-largest-free-flying-us-flag-displayed-on-flag-day
- Although Betsy Ross is commonly depicted sewing the original stars and stripes, Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, is the true designer of the red, white and blue banner. Hopkinson invoiced the government for the flag design in 1780, asking to be compensated in the form of “a quarter cask of public wine”; but Congress never authorized payment. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Hopkinson
- http://www.thefederalistpapers.org/founders/adams/john-adams-the-second-day-of-july-will-be-the-most-memorable-in-the-history-of-america