“This weekend, American commemorates the 239th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The 4th of July is a day unlike any other. It is not only the day that an infant nation formally defied the most powerful empire on earth, but it is also the day that 13 colonies declared as a “self-evident truth” the radical notion that “all men are created equal–empowered by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among those are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”
The significance of this moment in history was not lost on the Founding Fathers. They understood that the United States would take a special place in the ranks of the world’s countries. Upon the signing of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams (who initially believed July 2 should mark our date of independence) wrote the following words in a letter to his wife Abigail:
“The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of American. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, b y succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. it ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to god Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”
For nearly two and a half centuries, Americans have proudly proven Adam’s predictions true. Whether you participate in a community parade, enjoy a fireworks display or simply sport the Red, White and Blue, we are all doing our part to keep alive the spirit of 1776.
I wish you a safe and Happy Independence Day!”
–California State Senator Mike Morrell
