Independence Day traditions and forgotten facts

Overview

• The Fourth of July celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, though independence was not declared on that exact date.
• Many founding fathers and signers of the Declaration of Independence are now obscure figures.
• Fireworks have been an integral part of Fourth of July celebrations since the first Independence Day.
• The Declaration of Independence and other founding documents were secretly hidden during World War II.
• The oldest annual Fourth of July parade takes place in Rhode Island, the smallest state.