Fired Up And Free! A Legal Look Into The 4th of July

The 4th of July is an important date in American history.

The 4th of July is celebrated as Independence Day in the United States. On this day, the nation was founded on principles of liberty, equality, and self-governance. It marked the independence of the United States of America from British rule. The celebrations and fireworks are aimed to honor the events in the background that shaped the USA we see today.

In this article, we tell you the interesting legal aspects of the 4th of July while talking about the journey towards American independence.           

So, What Actually Happened On The 4^th Of July, 1776?

On the 4th of July, 1776, the United States declared its independence from the rule and colonization of Great Britain. It started with the Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence.

What is the Declaration of Independence?

It is a document drafted by Thomas Jefferson outlining the grievances of the American colonies. It stated a clear intention of their separation from the tyranny of British rule. The signing of this document was the highlight of the American Revolutionary War. It united the colonies in their fight for their freedom toward a new and free nation.

• Americans reflect on their history and the sacrifices for freedom by the founding fathers and revolutionaries. Patriotic festivities, parades, fireworks and barbecues, family gatherings, and various public ceremonies are held all across the country to celebrate this day. Major League Baseball games are often scheduled on the 4th of July as a form of celebration. They celebrate the rights they now enjoy as citizens of a free United States.
• The 4th of July, although a celebration of American independence, has different legal manifestations that can be observed throughout American history. The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. It has significant legal changes bringing about the formal separation of all of the American colonies from British rule. 

The Declaration of Independence set up the legal basis of a new nation with complete self-governance.

 What followed the 4^th of July 1776?

On the 17^th of September, 1787, the Supreme Law of the United States, the US Constitution, was signed. 

• It laid the legal framework for the nation. The ratification of the Constitution, subsequent amendments, and the interpretations delivered by the Supreme Court, along with subordinate courts, have shaped the legal system. This has led to the protection of individual rights and liberties and remedies in case of breaches.  
• In the mid-20th century, the 4th of July became a platform for civil rights activists. Their fight for equality and against racial segregation led to legal milestones of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
• Landmark decisions, such as Brown v. Board of Education (1954) and Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), address the big human rights questions of racial segregation and same-sex marriage.

Courts have applied the principles of the Declaration of Independence in their landmark judgments. 

How do Federal Laws Embody the Spirit of the 4th of July?

The 4th of July shaped the nation’s history, protected the rights of the citizens, and reflected the values of the American people.

Several federal laws reflect the values of the 4th of July. 

• The Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791, guarantees fundamental rights of freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, reflecting the spirit of liberty and individual freedoms celebrated on Independence Day.
• The Civil Rights Act of 1964 embodies the ideals of equal rights and liberty.
• Voting Rights Act of 1965 ensures equal access to the democratic process, assuring principles of self-governance and equality.
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It ensures inclusivity and equal opportunity according to the principles of equality and freedom.
• Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) of 1993 protects freedom of religion and upholds the 1st Amendment’s guarantee of religious liberty.
• Fair Housing Act ensures equal access to housing opportunities. 

Wrapping It Up!

The 4th of July is very important to American history and to the legal framework of the nation. As we celebrate this day, let’s know about some quirky facts about this day.

• The 4th of July is the biggest hot dog consumption day in the United States.
• The tradition of fireworks on the 4th of July goes way back to 1777, when fireworks commemorated the first anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
• Americans love to show off their patriotic spirit through outfits adorned with stars and stripes.

4th of July is also famous for barbecues and cookouts. Burgers, sizzling steaks, and ribs celebrate the flavors of freedom.

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