We celebrate the Fourth of July because it still matters.
Nearly 250 years ago, a cadre of civic-minded colonists risked everything, including their lives, to break ties with an arrogant British king who demanded loyalty without question.
So, these colonists — lawyers, merchants, doctors, ministers, plantation owners, etc. — agreed to divorce Great Britain on July 2, then formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4 in Philadelphia. They presented it to the world, and a new age had begun.
Exactly one year later, on July 4, 1777, that bold declaration was celebrated with bonfires, bells, and fireworks. Ever since then, a burst of fireworks has become the leading and most enduring symbol of our nation’s independence, exploding with color from coast to coast, illuminating the Fourth.
Fireworks are an ancient tradition, going back more than 2,000 years in China, where they were used to ward off evil spirits. By the 13th century, fireworks crossed the continents, spreading over the trade routes to Europe, where they dazzled kings and emperors at royal displays and public festivals.
Ironically, in our country fireworks mark the moment when we said “no way” to the unchecked power of kings and emperors.
Modern fireworks still depend on the same basic principles — black powder to propel them into the air and to ignite the chemical compounds that produce colorful streaks of light. These shows use computer controls and advanced pyrotechnics, but the effects are still the same: lots of oohs and ahhs.
This year, as we gaze upward, enjoying the brilliant, colorful, decorative explosions lighting up the sky over White County, let’s remember what all of that combustible beauty represents: freedom isn’t granted by kings, who inherit wealth and power; it is claimed and preserved by ordinary people capable of doing brilliant things.
So, enjoy those fireworks and fly those flags and let’s gather together under the same stars that flickered over our nation’s founders when they lit the spark of revolution.