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Emily Suess

Memorable July Fourths in American History

July 3, 2014 —
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July 4 is a big day in American history. Not just because it’s Independence Day, the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, but also because it’s the anniversary of several other historically important moments.

United States declares independence

There’s the groundbreaking of the Freedom Tower in New York City in 2004, President Lyndon Johnson’s signing of the Freedom of Information Act in 1966, the first performance of “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee” in 1831, and the surrender of Vicksburg, Mississippi to Union forces in 1863.

historic events on july 4

July 4 marks the anniversary of the first American Top 40 radio broadcast, too. Casey Kasem, who passed away last month, co-created and hosted the first show on July 4, 1970.

casey kasem

The United States also unveiled its 49- and 50-star flags on July 4, 1959 and 1960, respectively, to honor Alaskan and Hawaiian statehood.

american flag

Whether you make history or just memories this year, here’s hoping you have a safe and fun holiday weekend.

3 Comments

Thomas Jefferson and John Adams both died on the same 4th of July as well.

Posted by David July 3, 2014 at 2:20 pm

    And then James Monroe died five years later – also on a 4th of July.

    Posted by January First-of-May October 2, 2014 at 8:06 am

I always feel proud at 4 July. Nice information!!

Posted by Belmarra July 16, 2014 at 2:24 am