The Fourth of July is a day to remember our nation’s independence.

On this day we display the U.S. flag to show our patriotism and pride for this country.

Many might celebrate the day with family reunions, concerts, barbecues, picnics, parades and baseball games, then watch a starburst of fireworks that night.

A federal holiday, the Fourth of July is the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress, a governing body of delegates from the 13 American colonies, according to historical information.

Thomas Jefferson wrote the main document, officially declaring the United States of America’s independence from British rule.

The written declaration stated the American colonies didn’t want to be ruled anymore by Great Britain and wanted to become their own country.

Actually, the document was voted on July 2, 1776, two days before July 4.

The Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence with a few revisions on July 4, 1776. The first person to sign the document on July 4 was John Hancock, president of the Congress. Almost a month later on Aug. 2, 1776, the delegates began signing the document.

Fireworks became part of celebrating Independence Day as far back as 1777, when cannons in Boston and Philadelphia lit up the sky 13 times to represent the 13 original colonies. Later, fireworks replaced cannons.

Congress declared July 4 as an official holiday in 1870 as part of a bill to officially recognize other holidays, including Christmas.

The Fourth of July is a day to enjoy the day and remember it signifies the freedom and birth of the United States of America.