Declaring your independence - are you sure?

If you have been a member of the Second Continental Congress in 1776, you were a rebel and considered a traitor by the King. You knew that a reward had been posted for the capture of certain prominent rebel leaders and the largest British armada ever assembled was just outside New York Harbor.

Affixing your name to the document meant that you pledged your life, your fortune, and your sacred honor to the cause of freedom.


Declaration of Independence

Join the signers of the Declaration of Independence

Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.
-- words written on the Liberty Bell

"Independence Day is regarded as the birthday of the United States as a free and independent nation.

The holiday recalls the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. At that time, the people of the 13 British colonies located along the eastern coast of what is now the United States were involved in a war over what they considered unjust treatment by the king and parliament in Britain. The war began in 1775. As the war continued, the colonists realized that they were fighting not just for better treatment; they were fighting for freedom from England's rule.

The Declaration of Independence, signed by leaders from the colonies, stated this clearly, and for the first time in an official document the colonies were referred to as the United States of America."
Celebrating Independence Day

"On July 4, 1776, we claimed our independence from Britain and Democracy was born. Every day thousands leave their homeland to come to the 'land of the free and the home of the brave' so they can begin their American Dream.

The United States is truly a diverse nation made up of dynamic people. Each year on July 4, Americans celebrate that freedom and indepen-dence with barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. Through the Internet we are learning about and communicating with people of different nations, with different languages and different races throughout the world. Bringing the world closer with understanding and knowledge can only benefit all nations.

We invite all nations to celebrate with Americans online this Fourth of July.

Happy Birthday, America!"
4th of July - Independence Day