How is 4th July celebrated in the UK? Independence Day 2019 events in Britain
AMERICANS mark the Fourth of July to celebrate their independence from the British Empire.
But that doesn't mean that Brits can't join in the fun even in lockdown. Here is all you need to know about today's celebrations.
What is Independence Day?
Independence Day celebrates America’s independence from the British Empire.
It is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
In 1775, the 13 colonies that made up America declared a war of independence against Britain.
The British had inhabited America since 1587 and exploited their resources such as tobacco and tea.
Tensions began to rise between the British and Americans as the British Government pushed for their own financial gain and continued to exploit American goods through taxation.
Founding Father and head of the Sons of Liberty organisation Samuel Adams, and his men, boarded three ships in Boston harbour and threw 342 chests of tea overboard.
This became known as The Boston Tea Party of 1773.
Other violent acts also arose from the tension over the taxation of tea and other products.
The Boston Tea Party was one of the main events that started the American Revolutionary War.
In 1775, the 13 colonies that made up America declared a war of independence against Britain and on July 4, 1776, Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence.
How is American Independence Day 2020 being celebrated in the UK?
You don’t need to be in the US to celebrate Independence Day, and even in the middle of a pandemic there are activities to mark the day.
- Plenty of American-themed restaurants have opened today after lockdown ready for customers to celebrate with some grub from across the pond including London's independent and award-winning Cut + Grind Burgers
- The American Museum in Bath has recently reopened its gardens and today relaunched its Night & Day: 1930s Fashion and Photographs exhibition
- The Benjamin Franklin House has been holding tours today and will offer more tomorrow at 2pm and 3pm. Group sizes will be limited to four people from separate households and guests are required to wear masks.
How do Americans celebrate Independence Day?
Fourth of July celebrations have taken various forms across the centuries.
In Bristol, Rhode Island, in 1777 there was a salute with 13 shotguns in the morning and evening of July 4.
And in 1778, then general of the revolutionary army, George Washington, doubled his troops rum ration for the festivities.
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Nowadays, fireworks are one of the most common ways to celebrate Independence Day.
Displays are held in every major city and the White House also puts on its own show on the South Lawn.
Generally, 4th of July is a time to spend with family and friends, eating BBQs, watching firework displays and parades while surrounded by a large quantity of red, white and blue, stars and stripes themed paraphernalia.