United States Celebrates Independence Day

 Events
Jul 042024
 

United States celebrates Independence Day. It declared itself free of English rule in 1776. Interestingly, only two people, John Hancock and Charles Thompson, signed the Declaration of Independence that day. Most of the representatives signed the document on August 2, 1776. Idea: Children could read Fireworks, Picnics, and Flags: The Story of the Fourth of July Symbols by James Cross GIblin and Ursula Arndt. Children could plan and carry out a Fourth of July parade. They could also learn more at: Fourth of July.

Erie Canal Construction Began in 1817

 Events
Jul 042024
 

Construction of the Erie Canal began in 1817. The Erie Canal opened on October 26, 1825. It joined the Atlantic Ocean (via the Hudson River) and Lake Erie. Approximately 363 miles long, it had 36 locks. Previously goods had to be shipped by wagon and pack animals. The canal cut transportation costs by 95 percent. Children can view an excellent video at: Erie Canal.

Statue of Liberty Was Given to the United States by France in 1884

 Events
Jul 042024
 
Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty was given to the United States by France in 1884. The statue was presented to Levi P. Morton, the US ambassador to France, in Paris. The statue was then taken apart and shipped to the United States. The statue reached our shores on June 17, 1885. However, the pedestal was not yet ready. The statue was formally revealed on October 28, 1886. Children can learn more at an excellent site: Statue of Liberty.

Monroe, Adams, and Jefferson All Died on the Fourth of July

 Events
Jul 042024
 

John Adams

Thomas Jefferson

James Monroe, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson all died on the Fourth of July. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died hundreds of miles apart but within hours of each other in 1826, and fifty years after the Declaration of Independence was made public. James Monroe died in 1831. Older children can read more at: Coincidence.

James Monroe