Surprising Facts About Independence Day You Probably Didn’t Know

America’s birthday is here again – it’s time to break out the hot dogs, fire up the grill, and get ready for some spectacular fireworks!

While you’re gearing up for your Independence Day celebrations, let’s kick off the festivities with some fascinating 4^th of July facts that might surprise even the most patriotic Americans.

 

 

The Declaration of Independence Was Signed WHEN?

Here’s a fact that might just shake up your take on American history: The Declaration of Independence wasn’t actually signed on July 4^th, 1776.

While the Continental Congress did adopt the Declaration on that historic date – and John Hancock (famous for his really big signature) was one of the few who did sign on July 4^th – the actual signing ceremony took place on August 2^nd.

This is because the Continental Congress needed time to prepare the formal document for signing. Though they approved the final wording on July 4^th, the official parchment copy wasn’t ready until August.

 

Apple Pie Became an American Staple in the Late 1700s

“As American as apple pie” is a phrase we’ve all heard – but did you know that apple pie became a true American staple in the late 18^th century?

It was born through a delicious combination of culinary traditions – Dutch immigrants brought their apple preserving techniques, while German immigrants contributed the flaky, edible pastry crust that made the dish so appealing. These European influences merged to bring about something uniquely American.

A recipe for apple pie even appeared in the very first American cookbook, “American Cookery,” published in 1796. From that point forward, apple pie became a genuine staple for American families. Interestingly, it didn’t always serve as dessert like we think of it today. Early Americans often enjoyed apple pie as a main course, and served it with cheese. That sounds pretty tasty!

 

Edward Rutledge Was the Youngest Person to Sign the Declaration

While the average age of the men who signed the Declaration of Independence was about 45 years old, Edward Rutledge was only 26 when he put his name to that historic document.

Despite his youth, Rutledge was a trusted and gifted public official who proved himself to be a persuasive force within the South Carolina delegation – and his story reminds us that the fight for American independence wasn’t just led by older statesmen. Young Americans also a played crucial role in shaping our country’s future, bringing energy and fresh perspectives to the revolutionary cause.

 

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest Started Over 100 Years Ago

The Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest isn’t just a modern spectacle – it has roots that stretch back over a century. As the legend goes, on the Fourth of July in 1916, four immigrants gathered at the very first Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand in Coney Island. They wanted to figure out who was the most patriotic American so, naturally, they held a hot dog eating contest.

This quirky beginning launched what would become one of America’s most beloved Independence Day traditions.

The current reigning champion, Joey Chestnut, holds the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest record for devouring an incredible 76 hot dogs in just 10 minutes, which he achieved in 2021. That’s more than one hot dog every eight seconds!

 

The Detroit Tigers will Play on the Fourth

Baseball and the Fourth of July go together like hot dogs and mustard. All 30 Major League Baseball teams are scheduled to play on Independence Day, including the Detroit Tigers, who will face off against the Cleveland Guardians.

This tradition runs deeper than just the major leagues. Nearly every Minor League team also plays on Independence Day, creating a nationwide celebration of America’s pastime.

 

Make Your Independence Day Celebration Extra Special

We hope these fun, surprising Fourth of July facts make for some great conversation starters at your Independence Day celebrations.

From all your friends at Smart Link Solutions, we wish you a fun and safe holiday filled with joy, celebration, and maybe a slice of that historically significant apple pie.

 

Happy Independence Day!