Did you know? While we celebrate July 4, 1776, as the birth of our nation, it was actually two days earlier, on July 2, that the Second Continental Congress voted to adopt a resolution for independence—one that was originally put forth on June 7!
July 4, 1776, is the day the Congress approved the wording of the Declaration of Independence, after two long days of discussion and debate over every word of Thomas Jefferson’s draft (as written by a committee of five men, including Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston).
And while some may recall July 4 as the day the Declaration was signed, that too is inaccurate—final votes were still required, and the final document had to be drafted. It wasn’t until August 2, 1776, that the Declaration of Independence was finally signed.
Why does all this history matter? Because it teaches us that some things—including some of the most important things we’ll ever experience or know—require time, collaboration, and a whole lot of hard work.
So today, as you enjoy grilling and watching fireworks with your loved ones, take a moment to appreciate all the effort and sacrifice that went into making our nation what it is today. And just imagine what we might accomplish ourselves with the right amount of patience, teamwork, and perseverance.
From all of us at U.S. Money Reserve, have a happy Fourth of July.
