Independence Day
Like most people around the country, this 4th of July, we’ll be celebrating our nation’s independence in all the usual ways…a BBQ and “beer thirty” as a group in the office, and then parades, picnicking and fireworks with family and friends on the day off from work.
On the 4th of July, there’s no need to buy gifts or plan elaborate meals; it’s a pretty laid back day. If you think about it, Independence Day is one of those holidays that just comes and goes without much thought.
Do you know what else transpired without much thought? The invention of fireworks as we know them!
When were fireworks invented?
Believe it or not, fireworks were not created intentionally to fill the sky with dazzling color. Thousands of years ago, in ancient China, the first “fireworks” were actually created to scare off evil spirits. It was discovered that the combination of chemicals produced what we now know as gunpowder, and within a few hundred years, the military used as such.
Eventually, orange-only fireworks were used for entertainment purposes, including during the very first July 4th celebration in 1777. At the time of our nation’s first anniversary, John Adams announced,
“This day will be most memorable in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival… It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade…bonfires and illuminations [fireworks]…from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.”
John Adams
As it turns out, Adams knew exactly what he was talking about with his surprisingly accurate description of today’s Independence Day celebrations!
For those still wondering, later in the 1830s, Italian inventors experimented by adding metals to traditional fireworks and voila! Colorful fireworks began to light up the night skies!
This year, while you’re enjoying the festivities, take a moment or two to reflect on the rich history of July 4th celebrations…from ancient China to early America, and all of the years in between. Enjoy and be safe!
Questions? Interested in learning more about the 4th of July & our company culture?
Get in touch with the L-Tron team.
Call 800-830-9523 or Email info@L-Tron.com