2 days until 4th of July, remembering American Independence!
What is 4th of July? This date marks the day of the United States of America's independence, a truly patriotic day in which Americans celebrate the very foundations of their people, yearning for freedom and democracy for all its inhabitants. This pivotal moment in history has led to an independent nation becoming the most powerful country on the pl...
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USA
Discover these stunning pictures of the USA, perfect for a variety of uses. Adorn your travel blogs with breathtaking landscapes, use them in educational materials to illustrate geographical and cultural diversity, or incorporate them into marketing campaigns.
Statue of Liberty
High-quality and breathtaking, these photos of the Statue of Liberty can be used for anything from decorating cards and banners to sprucing up your website or blog. Let the iconic symbol of freedom provide a fittingly patriotic touch to your holiday celebrations.
American Flag
You don’t have to be a patriot to appreciate the beauty of these photos of the American flag, perfect for decorating your 4th of July celebrations. Whether you're looking for an impressive backdrop for a fireworks display or wanting to add a unique twist to a summer barbecue, you’ll love them!
Bald Eagle
This 4th of July, why not make a statement and fly high like the majestic bald eagle? With these beautiful photos of bald eagles, you can show your patriotic pride in style. Perfect for posters, cards, banners, and more, they’re sure to lend a regal touch to any celebration.
4th of July backgrounds
It’s time to show off your inner patriot! An all-American background is a fantastic way to show your fondness and devotion by stepping in for a Zoom background or even a PowerPoint presentation. This essential element will also benefit your Independence Day projects.
4th of July banners
Banners are a great way to attract attention to your Independence Day event. Try them in a social media post or website for maximum exposure. Such designs could also be sent to the printer, creating big 4th of July banners for a social event.
4th of July cards
Send festive greetings and share patriotic joy with this collection of 4th of July cards. Use them to send personalized messages to friends and family, improve your social media posts, or add a special touch to your holiday newsletters.
4th of July wallpapers
Bring the 4th of July spirit along with you wherever you go on your mobile phone device. Perhaps a stars and stripes wallpaper would work great on your computer desktop, showing your support while you work!
Symbols
American flag
Bald eagle
Fireworks
Statue of Liberty
The American flag is a world symbol of freedom and democracy, but the flag itself bears its own story of the struggle for independence. The 13 stripes represent the original 13 British colonies, and the 50 stars represent the 50 states. The colors used are not accidental either. Red symbolizes the valor and bravery of the uprising, white stands for purity, and blue represents vigilance and justice. It is a symbol the American people stand by, even more so on Independence Day. This symbol could be a main feature for any of your 4th of July themes, as it is instantly recognizable as a patriotic symbol.
Shortly after the declaration of American independence, the Founding Fathers had to dream up an American seal. From white eagles to turkeys, ideas were coming out of the woodwork. However, the decision was made that the American bald eagle was the winning choice that made its way onto every official American document. Today, its use is widespread, making its way onto the CIA logo and, of course, the dollar bill. The eagle is a strong symbol of independence, strength, and freedom, a fitting symbol for a country so proud of its heritage. The bald eagle is a welcomed element that could make a great feature in your 4th of July themes.
If you really want your neighborhood to know you’re having a party, fireworks will effortlessly carry such a message. Explosions of color and the smell of gunpowder almost transport you to the battlefield of the late 1700s. However, today, such a symbol is a celebration of something big, and Independence Day is as big as celebrations get in America. Perhaps you are creating a flyer or social media posts for a 4th of July party where a firework symbol could work great as a feature on your design. With an abundance of different styles and colors to pick from, they will do well to support your 4th of July campaigns.
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most celebrated icons in America. It is a monument that stands for freedom and liberty to all, a fitting symbol for a country that was very dependent on migrants arriving in the new nation. New arrivals docking in New York would be welcomed by this 100-meter-high statue as a gesture of goodwill, carrying its message of freedom and liberty. This symbol works especially well when creating visual communication for Independence Day, creating eye-catching flyers, posters, and social media campaigns that will gain much-wanted attention for a party or event.
America loves bold, defining colors such as Firebrick! This strong red hue will play its part in motivating your Independence Day design projects, providing stability to the elements it supports. The psychology behind Firebrick Red signifies lust, fire, courage, and heroism, a fitting description that will support the message of Independence Day. Its bold flavor will do well to cut through any background noise, adding definition to featured elements such as typography, vector design, or character drawings. Bring your Independence Day themes to life using this defining color choice!
How did a country grow from a colony under authoritarian rule, break out, and become the most powerful country on the planet? Here, we can look back at the inception of a great nation coming to be, in a fascinating tale of struggle, bravery, and the appetite for a fair democracy. The world bore witness to a colony under constant struggle as major global powers all wanted a piece of the new world. Warring factions would turn to internal conflict with dominating colonial rule. But when you play with matches, you get burned. Read these 4th of July history sections to find out just how the American patriots managed to push the most powerful army in the world into submission, making way for a declaration of independence.
The British tax squeeze and lack of representation would lead to unsavory acts of violence
Before the United States of America’s inception, the colonial land, under the rule of British King George III, was split up into 13 colonies along the east coast of today’s United States. Stretching from Florida to the border with Canada, also ruled by the British Empire. With expenses mounting after victory in the French and Indian war a decade earlier, the British authorities decided to hand the burden over to the American colonists, creating taxes such as Stamp Duty to pay off the war debt. The lack of representation in Parliament was enough to rattle the colonists into a rebellious mood, and violence ensued. Mobs would form, intimidating tax collectors into resigning. In one incident, a confrontation between a colonist mob and the British army led to the killings of 5 American colonists, later called the Boston Massacre. One rebellious act worthy of mention was the time of the Boston Tea Party, when a posse of colonists boarded British ships in disguise, throwing 342 chests filled with tea overboard. The British response was to impose more measures, inflicting imperial authority.
The first shots are fired, an army is summoned, and all-out war is declared in the fight for independence
In response to the oppressive behavior of the British authorities, colonial delegates, including George Washington, arrived in Philadelphia, where a meeting took place to voice their disapproval at the hands of the British Empire and their King. At this point, there was no talk of independence. Instead, they voiced concern over unrepresented acts of unconstitutional taxation and oppression fr om the British army. Before a second meeting could take place, the British army, also known as The Red Coats, marched from Boston to Concord to seize an arms cache but were ambushed by a volley of fire from local militiamen, essentially starting the Revolutionary War on April 19th, 1775. In light of the new situation, the second meeting took place in Philadelphia, where we saw the likes of Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson join in on the vote to form the Continental Army commanded by George Washington. On July 4th, 1776, with the War of Independence in full swing, the Continental Congress voted to adopt the Declaration of Independence from Britain, drafted by Thomas Jefferson with the help of 4 others, including Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.
The war for American independence lingered on long after the declaration was drafted. Later on in the war, the French seized the opportunity to join in the effort to topple the British. This essentially caused a turning point in the struggle. The campaign concluded at the battle of Yorktown, where the British army, led by Charles Cornwallis, was held. George Washington and his army, supported by the French, led 14,000 men into Yorktown to confront Cornwallis. However, to prevent the British from receiving reinforcements or making a retreat, a French fleet of 36 ships was held offshore. Trapped and outnumbered, Cornwallis and his men surrendered to the American and French forces. Although the British didn’t officially leave for another two years, the war was over. On September 3rd, 1783, the British formally recognized the independence of the United States while also signing peace treaties with Spain and France.
Celebrations grow year by year, but when did Independence Day become a public holiday?
A year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Congress gathered in Philadelphia to mark the occasion. This turned into street parties, fireworks, and bonfires that must have been one hell of a party. An annual celebration of Independence Day didn’t become widespread till after the war in 1812. Year after year, the trend grew in popularity, spreading to towns and villages everywhere, bringing together people from afar in solidarity. In 1870, Congress finally established July 4th as a public holiday, bringing more meaning to the celebration.
In the 1800s, there was an outcry for independence around the world, with much focus on what once was the new world of America. Let’s take a look into these now happily independent countries to find out a little more about each of them, a little history, and how they celebrate their national pride and independence.
Independence Day in the USA is an array of patriotic homage, served with all-American mustard. In the land of freedom and democracy, its people commemorate the day on which their country became an independent nation. July 4th, a public holiday since 1870, is a chance for Americans to celebrate being American and all things American. Family and friends head to the backyard, rain or shine, to fire up the BBQ and enjoy an all-American feast of hot dogs, burgers, and steaks, most likely accompanied by Coca-Cola and American beer. American flags hang on the entrances of homes, and with the additional decorations, it feels like the entire country is wrapped in stars and stripes. Once their bellies are full, a parade is probably the thing to do. The atmosphere is enough to turn anyone into an American, with brass bands playing, big float sculptures commemorating the heroes of American independence, and cheerleaders all cultivating a high-energy spectacle. As the sun sets, crowds are rewarded with a cataclysm of fireworks, song, and dance.
Mexicans are also a nation opposed to authoritarian rule. On September 16th, 1810, Catholic Priest Miguel Hidalgo stood up in the town of Dolores, delivering a powerful speech. The Cry of Dolores, as it came to be known, motivated Mexicans to stand up against the Spanish regime. This then turned into a violent feud as Hidalgo’s army clashed with the Spanish in the Mexican War of Independence. The Declaration of Independence was officially proclaimed on September 28th, 1821, marking Mexico's independence from Spain. Today, Mexican people enjoy a public holiday to celebrate the Cry of Dolores, also known as Mexican Independence Day. Banks, schools, and public services are closed for the day, along with many other businesses, allowing the whole community to feel the high energy. The fiestas take to the streets, covered in red, white, and green decorations, with an abundance of Mexican flags fluttering with a sense of pride as the dancing celebrations go long into the night.
The free spirit of India. Independence Day in India is celebrated on August 15th and has done so since 1947, when British rule came to a relatively peaceful conclusion. The independence movement made progress during the First World War, led by a man named Mahatma K Gandhi, who supported a peaceful transition of power; this man, later referred to as the father of India, is still an inspiration to the world. Today, Indians are enthusiastic about celebrating their national independence, raising the Indian flag above the Lahori Gate in Delhi, and coming together in honor of great legends who made it all possible. It’s also a day for family togetherness, perhaps walking in the local park and sitting together for a family feast. Another spectacular tradition is kite flying, which has become an iconic symbol of India’s freedom. Watching them soar through the skies in their beautiful colors reminds us of the free spirit of India itself.
People take to the streets to party for Brazilian Independence Day. A country seemingly always ready to party, yet Independence Day is an extra special celebration. Every year on September 7th, the Brazilian people stop what they are doing and party, just as you might expect, and they have good reason to. Under Portuguese rule from the 1500s, it took a Brazilian-born heir to the throne, Pedro I, to cut its ties with the Kingdom of Portugal in a violent clash with his father, King Dom John VI, proclaiming Brazil as an independent country in 1822. Today, Brazilians are rewarded with a public holiday whereby families can enjoy a day together or participate in huge celebrations that populate the cities and towns, such as the giant military parade in Brasilia, the capital. In addition, there is the civic parade, where children from local schools get together to provide an audience with memorable performances. The whole day is a dazzling display of Brazilian patriotism.
Bastille Day, the French Revolution. Bastille Day is an important day for the French people, who mark July 14th in their calendars to remember that in 1789, the people of France revolted against the former regime and King. It all started with a mob surrounding the Bastille. A medieval fort converted into a prison. The Bastille held political prisoners, some of whom were obtained directly from the King’s authority and had no appeal. The mob overran the prison, releasing the seven prisoners, and helped themselves with weapons and ammunition. This marked the beginning of the French Revolution. The revolution’s success has led to a France we are all familiar with today. A public holiday was announced in 1880, and Bastille Day has since become a yearly celebration with traditions such as military parades, massive gatherings, and firework displays. Independence Day in France or Bastille Day is a commemorative sight. It is also a time to be proud of being French, as their culture is amplified in music, dance, and theater. Vive le 14 Juillet!
Celebrating their peaceful Independence Day. On July 1st, the people of Canada celebrate Canada Day, also known as Canadian Independence Day. It is a day remembered for merging the three North American British colonies, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada. On July 1st, 1867, Britain established the unified and semi-independent dominion of Canada, in other words, a self-governing dominion of Great Britain, and the introduction of Canada’s first Prime Minister, John A MacDonald. Today, Canadians celebrate being Canadian, taking advantage of a public holiday, enabling most to engage in family activities. The big day is at the peak of summer, so the celebration is often done outdoors. Taking part in the nearby parade or participating in some all-Canadian sports, such as ice hockey or fishing, is fun for everyone. As the sun sets over an independent Canada, fireworks are seen exploding long into the night while the nation parties on while shouting, "O Canada!"
Fiestas Patrias. On July 28th, Peru celebrates the end of Spanish rule that began as far back as the 1500s, which saw the end of the great Inca civilization. To celebrate, Peruvians are given two days of holiday: on the 28th, a celebration of independence, and on the 29th, a celebration of its military. Coinciding with school winter holidays means the whole family can enjoy celebrating together. Traveling within the country is very popular, perhaps to visit the capital, Lima, where the big celebrations are happening. On the first day, the celebration of Peruvian Independence Day kicks off with a 21-cannon salute. Here on after, the nation embarks on a nationwide celebration, with big parades and dancing. Throughout the whole month of July, homes and official buildings are to bear Peru’s national flag and can even face a fine if not carried out. Celebrations go on long into the night with traditional music or even rock music, making for a kinetic atmosphere. The second day focuses on its military might, with a huge military parade making its way through the capital.
The flowerpot incident. Colombian Independence Day is celebrated on July 20th and it commemorates the birth of the Republic of Colombia. A revolt ensued on July 20th, 1810, involving an incident with a flower pot. A Spanish businessman refused to lend a flowerpot to a group of Colombians, born of Spanish descent, who wanted independence. They proceeded to smash the flowerpot, running into the street shouting in protest, somehow triggering a series of historical events. All this happened after the Spanish authorities increased taxation to fund the Spanish involvement in the American war for independence. Furthermore, Colombia was only allowed to trade with Spain. This movement rippled throughout Latin America. Today, Colombians celebrate their national freedom with a national holiday, commemorating the occasion by eating the national dish of Bandera Paisa. Other activities, such as playing sports and listening to traditional Colombian music, are important parts of the celebrations. Another tradition is the game Tejo, which involves throwing metal disks at explosive targets!
