Independence Day: The History of July 4th

This special presentation by the History Channel is an examination of the origins of Independence Day and the evolution of the holiday's celebration. The quintessential American holiday, Americans of all racial, religious and ethnic backgrounds nationally celebrate Independence Day. It provides Americans with a day to reflect upon and to honor the diversities of the American people that are united in a common heritage.

Independence Day: The History of July 4th traces the roots of American independence and the various ways in which Americans have celebrated the formation of the United States for over two hundred years. Independence Day: The History of July 4th would be useful for classes on American History, Civics, and American Culture. It is appropriate for elementary school, middle school and high school.

• Americana
• anti-federalists
• brethren
• carnage
• distinguished
• eloquent
• emissary
• exuberance
• federalists
• fetters
• galvanize
• icon
• ingenuity
• interminable
• obnoxious
• optimistic
• options
• propound
• ratification
• raucous
• rhetoric
• sacrilegious
• scrutinized
• somber
• stalwart
• staunchly
• tetanus
• weary

Discussion Questions

1. Fireworks are a traditional way to celebrate the Fourth of July. How did fireworks become associated with the holiday? What are some of the dangers of fireworks? How can we avoid these dangers and still enjoy the majesty of firework displays?

2. How is the Fourth of July a uniquely American experience?

3. The Revolutionary generation made the transition from colonists to Americans. How and why did this transformation take place?

4. In an event that foreshadowed the coming revolution, the Boston Massacre resulted in the death of five colonists. How and why did the Boston Massacre take place?

5. Thomas Jefferson was the author of the Declaration of Independence. Why was Thomas Jefferson chosen by his peers to write America's revolutionary document?

6. John Hancock was the first man to sign the Declaration of Independence. He did so in a very large script. Why did Hancock make his signature so large and obvious? What was the significance of this act?

7. What was the role of symbols in the American Revolution?

8. Although the revolution was successful, the next step of implementing a federated nation caused some difficulties. Why were the Constitution and the concept of a federated nation so controversial? How were these obstacles overcome?

9. America is a very young country in comparison to some European and Asian nations. How has the Fourth of July helped to supply our young country with a national past and a national identity throughout our two hundred and twenty-two-year history?

10. Why was the War of 1812 referred to as

11. How did Uncle Sam become a national symbol? How has the United States used the symbol of Uncle Sam to instill patriotism in Americans, especially in times of national crisis?

12. What was the irony of the Fourth of July celebrations in the United States during the years when slavery was practiced?

Extended Activities

1. Create a poster that celebrates the United States' Centennial and the 1876 Centennial Exhibition.

2. Create a dramatic re-enactment of the debate between American patriots who wished to become independent and loyalists who wished to remain a colony of England.

3. Write an essay in which you discuss and describe your favorite Fourth of July celebrations and how these celebrations help you to understand the history of America.

Related Videos

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Air Dates

• July 01, 2005
• July 03, 2006