INDEPENDENCE DAY: THE REST OF THE STORY

Dr. Debi Gilmore LMFT

Holidays and the traditional celebrations we look forward to serves to reinforce our sense of belonging and purpose. This month we celebrate the establishment of freedom and independence in America. Here’s an interesting and dramatic story behind America’s Declaration of Independence—with a few twists and lesser-known facts that make it more than just a date on the calendar:

The Real Risk of Treason

When the 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, they weren’t just writing history—they were committing treason against the British crown. If caught, they risked death by hanging. John Hancock famously signed his name extra-large so that “King George can read it without his spectacles.”

Jefferson’s Rough Draft Got Edited—A Lot

Thomas Jefferson was the main writer, but the version we know today went through major edits. He was reportedly frustrated that the Continental Congress cut out about a quarter of what he wrote, including a powerful paragraph condemning slavery. Southern delegates wouldn’t support the document with that included—so it was removed.

It Wasn’t All Signed on July 4

While July 4 is when Congress adopted the final text, most of the actual signing took place on August 2, 1776. Some delegates weren’t even present on the 4th. So technically, America’s birthday is a bit more complicated.

The Dunlap Broadsides

About 200 copies of the Declaration were printed on the night of July 4 by a man named John Dunlap. These are called “Dunlap Broadsides,” and only 26 are known to survive today. One was discovered behind a picture frame in a flea market in 1989 and later sold for $8.1 million.

Benjamin Franklin’s Humor

When signing, Benjamin Franklin reportedly quipped, “We must all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately.” Classic Franklin—wise and witty in one line, capturing the danger and the unity required.

What is most important to know about Independence Day in America?

What It Commemorates

Independence Day (July 4th) marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when the 13 American colonies declared their freedom from British rule. It’s the birth of the United States of America as a nation built on the principles of freedom, equality, and self-government.

Why It Matters

Independence Day represents freedom and democracy and the founding ideals—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It represents the courage and sacrifice of the signers as they risked everything for independence. It was a bold rebellion against a powerful empire.

It represents the importance of unity and diversity, and started the journey of forming a diverse and democratic nation, still evolving today. It captures why July 4th is more than a holiday—it’s a celebration of the right to be free.

“Liberty is the soul’s right to breathe.” – Rev. William Sloane Coffin

It captures why July 4th is more than a holiday—it’s a celebration of the right to be free.