The 4th of July, as with many other American holidays is traditionally celebrated with parades, fireworks and backyard barbeques across the country.  As you celebrate this wonderful American holiday, take the time to remember what we are actually celebrating for!  Below are a few facts about Independence Day that you may have forgotten or may not even know! On July 4^th 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress.  From then on, the 13 colonies embarked on the road to freedom as a sovereign nation…

• During the initial battles of the Revolutionary War in April 1775, few colonists desired complete independence from Great Britain, those who did were considered ‘Radical’
• Thomas Paine’s bestselling pamphlet “Common Sense” was published in early 1776 and helped spread the growing hostility against Great Britain
• Virginia Delegate, Richard Henry Lee first introduced the motion calling for the colonies to have independence on June 7, 1776
• A Five-Man Committee consisting of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Roger Sherman, Benjamin Franklin and Robert R. Livingston were chosen to draft a formal statement vindicating the break from Great Britain
• On July 2^nd 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later it’s delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson
• In 1870, the U.S. Congress made 4^th of July a federal holiday – in 1941, the provision was expanded to grant a paid holiday to all federal employees
• John Adams & Thomas Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826 – the 50^th Anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence 

There are a few interesting side notes to the relationship between Adams and Jefferson.   While the two collaborated on one of the world’s most enlightened and historic documents they were political rivals and agreed on few issues.  Thomas Jefferson, the nation’s third president, defeated John Adams the nations second president.  While residing on his farm in Quincy, MA, Adams began writing letters to his old adversary.  They  corresponded for the rest of their  lives and developed an admiration for each other.  One thing John Adams had always proclaimed was “I will outlive Jefferson”.  As he lay on his deathbed on Independence Day, 1826 – the last words from John Adams’ lips were “Thomas Jefferson survives.”  Rumor has it that upon Adam’s death, the messenger that was sent to Jefferson’s home in Virginia had actually passed a messenger sent FROM Jefferson’s home along the way, also bearing sad news.  For just a few hours earlier, Thomas Jefferson had passed away.  Adam’s proclamation had come true; he had outlived Jefferson – both draftsmen of the document that gave us our Independence dead, exactly 50 years to the day from the birth of the country they founded.

To find more facts like these about the 4^th of July please visit: http://www.history.com/topics/july-4th

And remember, if you are a Property Manager, Community Association or an Apartment Building Owner and are considering hosting any events or activities for this 4^th of July weekend, please double-check your General Liability and Umbrella Coverage to make sure you don’t end up with any unwanted claims!

New Empire Group, Ltd. would like to wish you and your family a Happy & Safe 4^th of July Weekend!

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