John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, on the second day of July, 1776, "Today will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more."
Adams's prediction was off by two days. From the outset, Americans celebrated Independence Day on July 4, the date shown on the much-publicized Declaration of Independence, rather than on July 2, the date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of Congress.
This 4th of July please be mindful of the blessing we as Americans are celebrating . Remember all the sacrifices that delivered this day to us, and all the sacrifices that are made every day to enable us to keep it.
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