Independence Day has been the most prominent holiday in American history ever since 1776, and it has equally celebrated traditions. The holiday is highly patriotic for celebrating the history and independence of the United States, and its traditions reflect those values. Independence Day is also known for its community-like traditions and celebrating with fellow Americans, yet that history may be little known.
What are the origins of the Independence Day traditions? Continue reading to learn more.
Barbecues
Barbecues have become one of the pivotal traditions held by Americans since the early 1800s when they originally celebrated local communities. The Daily Meal, an online food recipe and news website, explains that communal barbecues were held in the early 1800s. They explain, “It became customary for local-level government figures to make speeches, after which the community would come together for a grand barbecue feast.” This tradition was quickly adopted by the expanding western states since these communal barbecues were also free to the public.
However, the 20th century marked the transition from communal to household barbecues. The Daily Meal lists the Civil War, the transition to urban households, and widely available barbecue technology as indicators of the present tradition. Although the tradition used to be communal, the current tradition encourages patriotism and community between family members and friends. Likewise, other current traditions reflect a sense of unity.
Fireworks
Since the first Independence Day, fireworks have been an illuminating and joyful experience. The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA), a trade association of consumer fireworks, notes that “early U.S. settlers brought their love of fireworks.” Fireworks were globally available around the 15th century, so early presidents like John Adams hoped for a blazing celebration. Eventually, the fireworks market adapted to the change in urban households and created smaller fireworks products for everyday citizens.
Sparklers & Apple Pie
Later in history, the sparklers were introduced and acted as an alternative to fireworks, symbolizing the holiday’s celebration. Wedding Day Sparklers, an online sparkler store, notes that the sparklers were widely common by the 19th century. Sparklers were common during celebrations and were a “safer alternative to fireworks without the loud bangs and potential dangers.” These have been a family-friendly product for its convenient and entertaining appeal that families can enjoy.
Another family Independence Day tradition that brings family and patriotism together is baking apple pies. The dessert was not created by American colonists, but it was introduced to them by fellow Dutch and German immigrants. Yahoo, a global media and tech company, explains that “apple pie is associated with the holiday because it celebrates the independence from Britain.” They add that the dessert “carried a similar meaning,” and that sentiment continues to be celebrated today.
Happy Independence Day!
Independence Day commemorates what it means to be American and its traditions reflect some of the United States’ values. Family and community is essential since the country has built and maintained that identity since the 1800s. The holiday has become a patriotic celebration that emphasizes the importance of the people of the United States.
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