July 3 , 2008

On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress announced the birth of a nation by adopting the Declaration of Independence. "These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be free and
independent states."

With these words, Americans in 13 colonies officially broke their ties to Great Britain, and the United States of America was born. On July 8, 1776, newly independent Americans broke out in celebration in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The first Independence Day party took place in and around Independence Hall, and included a public reading of the freshly adopted Declaration of Independence, parades, bonfires, and the ringing of the historic Liberty Bell.

Thousands of spectators watch the Big Horn Equestrian Center "July 4th Spectacular" fireworks display July 4, 2005, near Big Horn, Wyoming.

John Adams, who signed the Declaration, and later became the nation's second president, thought America's birthday should be celebrated by continuing this type of party each year.

More than 200 years later, the entire country celebrates with a nationwide party that definitely includes all of the "pomp and parade" that Adams, who also served as the first Vice President, wished for.

Families and friends spend the day at outdoor barbecues, playing games, and indulging in fun during the height of summer.

Cities and towns throughout the U.S. will light up the skies with fireworks. Just look to the document that started it all, the Declaration of Independence. "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."