The Fourth of July

After over a year of war with Great Britain, the Continental Congress approved the resolution for independence on July 2, 1776 and formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The war for independence began in 1775, major fighting ended at Yorktown in 1781, but the formal treaty was not signed until 1783. In 1787, the Constitution of the United States of America was ratified. In 1789, the first President was inagurated and the first Congress sworn in. It was a long and difficult struggle lasting over fourteen years. It cost untold lives and fortunes. It was a struggle of men who were willing to sacrifice everything for something greater than themselves. I am so grateful that they did.

So, while you are enjoying all of the things that John Adams hoped for: parades, shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations (fireworks), please remember these patriots who gave us all that we hold dear and so much that we take for granted! And, remember those who have protected those freedoms throughout our history and continue to do so today!

Last year's Fourth of July post:
http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2006/07/independence-day.html