4th of July

From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades, and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor for independence in a near-unanimous vote. On July 4th, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Thomas Jefferson. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, from then on the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American independence. 

Thinking back on the European Powers and their ideas of imperialism, I can not help but think of the picture of the octopus looking creature on page 790. To know that we were once under one tentacle and to know that we were able to become independent is fantastic. However, I do not quite agree with how the events took place—Europe invading the Americans and killing thousands of Native Americans. I understand that it is about conquering the land, gaining power, and building new nations, yet, it all comes with a deadly price. 

Today (2020) many are against celebrating 4^th of July (at least from what I have read on my social media feed). Many claim that we are not free until we have reached equality and justice for all. I do agree that there is still injustices, there is still people who feel that they are not really free. Many are angry at “America” and I do not blame them one bit.