On July 4, 2024, the world celebrates Independence Day, marking the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in 1776. This historic date also saw the opening of the United States Military Academy in 1802 and the beginning of construction of the Erie Canal in 1817.
In 1826, former presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson passed away on the same day, fifty years after the Declaration of Independence. The first edition of Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass” was published in 1855, while the Civil War Siege of Vicksburg ended in 1863.
In 1910, Jack Johnson defeated Jim Jeffries in a highly anticipated boxing match, sparking race riots across the country. The 48-star American flag was adopted in 1912 to recognize statehood for New Mexico and Arizona.
Other notable events on this day include Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech in 1939, the signing of the Treaty of Manila in 1946 recognizing Philippine independence, and the adoption of the current 50-star version of the US flag in 1960.
In 1976, America celebrated its bicentennial with daylong festivities, while in 1987, former Gestapo chief Klaus Barbie was convicted of crimes against humanity. The Statue of Liberty reopened in 2013 after being shuttered due to Superstorm Sandy.
Birthdays today include actor Eva Marie Saint turning 100, actor Karolyn Grimes of “It’s a Wonderful Life” fame turning 83, and singer and rapper Post Malone celebrating his 29th birthday.
As the world marks this day of independence and historical milestones, it is a time to reflect on the past and look towards the future with hope and unity.
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