Fourth of July – 250th Anniversary of Independence
Anniversaries are special events. They recognize personal milestones – how long a person has worked for a particular company or when a person has recovered after a difficult health struggle – and the most familiar example – wedding anniversaries.
But anniversaries also mark important events, such as famous battles, or the birthdays of important historical figures. Our nation will celebrate an important anniversary this Fourth of July: the semiquincentennial. It means that the United States of America will be 250 years old.
Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
What we are celebrating is the day the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. For years the relationship between Great Britain and their American colonies had been tense. This tension erupted into armed conflict on April 19, 1775, which began the American War for Independence. Just over fourteen months later, on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally stated their intention to break with Great Britain by signing the Declaration of Independence. And the United States of America was born.
What do you get a nation for their 250th Anniversary?
So what do we do for a nation on its 250th anniversary? Is there an Amazon list for that?
There may not be a wish list for our nation’s anniversary, but there are plenty of things we can do. Many cities and towns are hosting special events celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. A number of organizations are encouraging Americans to volunteer in their local communities throughout the year as one way to honor and celebrate this big day.
Reflections on Courage
Personally, I like Eleanor Roosevelt’s suggestion from 1959. The former First Lady wrote that she would like to see the Fourth of July celebrated with a reading of the Declaration of Independence in each town, followed by a short speech reminding people how this vital document came into being.
“We should be reminded that the founding fathers were, for the most part, very young, and that it took great courage to face the conditions of their day. Their actions gave hope to people all over the world . . .
I think that if it became our habit to think of the Declaration of Independence and our country as it existed in 1776, we would face today’s problems with more courage.”
Insightful words from Mrs. Roosevelt.
Celebrating the Fourth – Remembering the Courage of the Founders
My plans for this holiday definitely include watching local fireworks and enjoying good food with family and friends. But I’ll also spend some time thinking about the people who created and stood behind the Declaration of Independence. Their courage to face difficult circumstances with the intent to change them and create something entirely new is inspiring. It gives me hope that we can face whatever difficult situations come our way with a similar resolve and create something new and thriving.
Whatever your plans are for this Fourth of July, know that the Westlark Team offers warm wishes for a peaceful and safe celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary!
Fourth of July – 250th Anniversary of Independence
By JD Buss
