Happy Independence Day

This post is a bit of a rant, you’ve been warned.

Today is the two hundred and twenty third anniversary of the adoption1 of the Declaration of Independence. Two hundred and twenty three years ago the United States officially declared themselves separate and independent of the tyranny of the King of England. It’s a day to be remembered, and it is. People everywhere will be going to see fireworks and grilling and celebrating with friends and family. One thing as of late has bugged me about the celebration of Independence Day, the way people acknowledge the day. It has become more and more common to wish someone a “happy 4th” rather than a “happy Independence Day.” It’s a little silly, but this really really bugs me. If we have a holiday in remembrance of something, remember it and say it out loud. You don’t wish people a “Merry 25th” for Christmas, so why wish people a “happy 4th?”

On that note. Have a Happy Independence Day everyone. Celebrate your freedoms, remember those who have fought for it2, and go see some fireworks.

  1. Not the signing, that didn’t happen till August 2nd, 1776. See here for more fun facts ↩

  2. By this I mean everyone, not just those who wear flags on their lapels and uniforms. Here are a few examples of people who aren’t often remembered but should be when remembering freedoms. Not that Veterans and Politicians that fight for what America is aren’t important, but they have their own days.

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