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Americans across the country are set to celebrate July 4 this weekend with parades, barbeques and red, white and blue gear.
In the nation’s capital, President Joe Biden is set to host a group of essential workers and military families on the South Lawn of the White House on Sunday. The National Park Service is also hosting the annual Independence Day fireworks celebration on the National Mall.
But why does the United States commemorate July 4 specifically, since the Declaration of Independence actually was signed later? When did Americans start observing the patriotic holiday, and why do we set off fireworks?