Learn about the Fourth of July in the US
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| Hi everyone, I'm Alisha. |
| The Fourth of July is also known as Independence Day. It commemorates the signing of The Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776. Think of it as America’s birthday! |
| When most people think about July 4th, they think about fireworks! But do you know why Americans display fireworks on the 4th? |
| We’ll show you the answer at the end of this video. |
| Americans kick up their heels on this holiday in many ways, but people mostly go to picnics and barbecues. It’s also a day to be patriotic, so you’ll often see the American flag and people dressed in red, white, and blue. |
| Parades are another common sight on the fourth of July, especially during the daytime. Why do they take place during the day? Because as soon as it gets dark, Americans gather to watch magnificent fireworks in the night sky. |
| Some families set off small fireworks in their driveways, and some gather in parks or by the sea to see the larger, more professional firework displays. |
| The most outstanding firework displays take place in New York City and Washington, D.C. Both of these displays are televised nationally and the president even attends the display in Washington, D.C. |
| On the fourth of July, you’ll hear the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." |
| The words were written by Francis Scott Key, who was inspired to write the lyrics after witnessing The Battle of Fort McHenry in the War of 1812. |
| And now here's the answer to the quiz. |
| Why do Americans shoot fireworks on the 4th? |
| The custom of shooting off fireworks on Independence Day can be traced back to a quote by our second president, John Adams. He said that he believed that July 4th should "be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations." |
| How was this lesson? Did you learn something interesting? |
| Are there any holidays when fireworks are shot off in your country? |
| Please leave a comment at EnglishClass101.com |
| Until next time! |
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