July 4, 1776, was America's birthday. That was the date the Continental Congress voted for the Declaration of Independence. Bells rang when the Declaration was read to the people. The cheering crowds lit bonfires and dances around them. Ever since 1776, the "Glorious Fourth" has been a jubilant holiday in the United States.

An amazing number of important events have occurred on the Fourth of July. This book describes different celebrations throughout the years, gives the history of our patriotic music, and tells of some of our national symbols, among them the American eagle and Uncle Sam. The Fourth of July is the nation's birthday, and the United States has received many dramatic birthday presents, the most famous being the Statue of Liberty.

Brimming with fun, anecdote, sparkling detail and lively illustrations, this is not only a history of July Fourth, its colorful customs and trappings, but also a vivid capsule history of the United States and its exciting growth during the last 200 years.

From the dust jacket