July 4, also known as Independence Day, marks the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the 13 North American colonies officially separated from Great Britain. As the Fourth of July draws nearer, here's a brief rundown of what happened that day in 1776, approximately 249 years ago.

On a hot, steamy day in Philadelphia, a group of delegates to the Continental Congress gathered to celebrate the final approval of the Declaration of Independence.

July movies to watch on US Independence Day 2025 are here. This list of the best 4th of July movies offers action, nostalgia and American spirit across genres. These films are perfect for watching on TV and streaming platforms like Netflix,

In previous reporting, in her column in the July 4, 1954, edition of the Deseret News, Inez Robb wrote: “I want a Fourth of July complete with parade, a community picnic with foot races in the town park, fireworks and, to top it all off, some inspired orator to speak well of Uncle Sam.”

By The Associated Press The Fourth of July is Americana at its core: parades and cookouts and cold beer and, of course, fireworks. Those pyrotechnics also make it an especially dangerous holiday,