Fourth of July: Facts About Independence Day

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In honor of the holiday here are a few interesting facts!

1. July 2 could well have been the United States’ Independence Day, for on this day, the Second Continental Congress voted for the resolution of independence. However, the Declaration of Independence statement came out only on July 4, 1776.
2. The Pennsylvania Evening Post, printed by Benjamin Towne from 1775 to 1784, was the first newspaper to publish the Declaration of Independence on July 6, 1776. 
3. Eight of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence representing the 13 colonies were born in Britain or Ireland.
4. Between 1777 and 1960, the shape and design of the American flag changed several times before arriving at the present form. The 13 alternating red and white stripes represent the 13 original colonies. Talking about colors, red stands for hardiness and valor; white symbolizes purity and innocence; and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.
5. On July 4, 1778, George Washington celebrated the first anniversary of the American independence by issuing double ration of rum to his soldiers.
6. In 1781, Massachusetts became the first state to declare July 4 a state holiday.
7. The Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest is a popular event that has been held at Coney Island every year since 1972. Joey Chestnut (pictured) of San Jose is the current title holder; he has won the title eight times consecutively since 2007.