A Little History

A couple years ago, I read David McCollough's fantastic biography of John Adams. In it, I learned that the Continental Congress approved the resolution for independence on July 2, 1776 and that most of the delegates signed the document on August 2, 1776. But I was especially struck by the words John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail.

"The second day of July, 1776, 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."

Sounds like a great itinerary for the day.