4th of July Fun Facts!

1. Why Fireworks?

Fireworks are par for the course for Fourth of July celebrations, but why exactly is that? Well, it’s been a tradition since 1777 because Founding Father John Adams envisioned a bright and exciting party to celebrate this special day. Of course, being from 1777, Adams had a more eloquent way of putting it: “Illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more.” AKA, fireworks.

2. It Wasn’t Just Fireworks That John Adams Used For Celebration

You might be thinking, “Time to fire up the grill and slap some hot dogs on it,” but Adams’s thoughts were more along the lines of ,“Time to stir up some stew and toss some turtle flesh in it.” That’s right, if you truly want to get into the authentic patriotic mood this year and kick it traditional, it looks like turtle soup and Indian pudding, both considered delicacies back in the day, will be on the menu. (Be warned, though: Turtles are an endangered species so maybe substitute your recipe for a different meat!)

3. Yum, Hot Dogs…

On July 4th alone, Americans reportedly consume approximately 155 million hot dogs. And to complement those dogs, Americans spend $203 million on condiments for the day. To wash it all down, 68.3 million cases of beer are sold over the course of the weekend, which accounts for 5% of the total amount of beer sold over the course of the entire year!

4. Birthdays, Death Days

Former Presidents James Monroe, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson have more in common than just being Commander-In-Chief of these Unites States -- all three of them died on July 4 (Adams and Jefferson in the same year!). Additionally, Calvin Coolidge (as well as former First Daughter Malia Obama) was born on the date. This is uncanny, statistically speaking, since there are potentially 366 unique days in a year and there have only been 45 presidents. Coincidence? I think… yes, probably, to be honest.

5. Made in China

The Fourth of July is distinctly American, but many of the things that give it that perception are actually from China. 87.5% of American flags are manufactured in China, along with 97% of fireworks.

Now that you’re a little more educated on the facts and figures of the Fourth of July, how do you intend to celebrate?

Happy Independence Day, everyone!