Why the Fourth of July?

When we think of July 4th, most people think of fireworks, picnics, parades, concerts, holiday, and the creation of the United States through our Declaration of Independence. In honor of the original Colonies, here are thirteen little known, or forgotten, details…
• July 2, 1776 is the day the “resolution of independence” was adopted by the 2nd Congress of the 13 Colonies.
• John Adams wrote that July 2nd would be “…the most memorable and epoch in the history of America.”
• Americans celebrated July 4th from the very start.
• There is debate over the actual signing of the document. Some accounts have it being signed, by some members, as late as January 1777. Most signed on August 2nd.
• Between July 2nd and July 4th of 1776, with much debate, almost one quarter of the text was deleted. Most notably a passage critical of slave trade.
• The opening line to the document is not as many believe – “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal…” This is the opening line of the preamble, the second paragraph, and the ideas that the Declaration is based on.
• Ultimately 56 delegates signed the declaration.
• 8 delegates present in early July for the debate did not sign the document. 3 were away on business, 4 were replaced, or resigned, as delegates, and 1 refused to sign.
• 2 delegates that voted against the declaration did sign it.
• 3 Presidents have died on July 4th, and 1 was born.
• It was not a paid Federal Holiday until 1938.
• In 1779 celebrations were held on Monday, July 5th.
• When hanging bunting, the blue stripe should be at the top.
And the opening sentence begins with. “When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary…” Just thought I would throw that one in. Wishing all a Happy, & Safe Independence Day.