Happy Independence Day!

Independence Day, also known as The Fourth of July or July 4th, is a U.S. federal holiday meant to celebrate America’s independence from Great Britain in the 18th century!

On July 2nd, 1776, the United States Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence. From then on, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, becoming recognized as a federal holiday in 1941.

Traditionally, July 4th has been celebrated throughout the years with fireworks, parades, concerts like A Capitol Fourth, which PBS has presented for over 40 years, and family gatherings like barbecues and cook-outs.

This July 4th, while we celebrate American independence, let’s also learn about the complicated history and origins of the holiday, and take a closer look at the live’s and contributions of some of America’s Founding Fathers. Check out the resources below to help teach your kids about what The Fourth of July really means!


Learn & Play!

Independence Day | All About the Holidays

Grades PreK-5
It’s the Fourth of July! Learn about the history of our country’s most famous birthday, and discover why we celebrate Independence Day the way we do today.

Children’s Books for the Fourth of July

Grades PreK-6
Celebrate this Fourth of July with fireworks, flags and the Founding Fathers! From the well-known George Washington and John Adams, to Sybil Ludington’s midnight ride, this collection of books brings history and festivity to kids ages 0-12.

Fourth of July Rockets

Grades K-5
Get ready for the Fourth of July with these fun Independence Day rocket decorations using some basic supplies and recyclables.

Independence Day | U.S. Department of State

Grades 3-5
Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4th because on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, officially breaking bonds with England and forming a new independent nation, the United States of America. Learn more with this resource from the U.S. Department of State, including sheet music for “America, The Beautiful.”

Great Performances: Hamilton’s America

Grades 3-12
Great Performances: Hamilton’s America provides a behind-the-scenes look at Lin-Manuel Miranda’s smash hit Broadway musical Hamilton. This collection blends history, footage of Miranda’s writing process, and scenes from the popular Broadway musical to create a vibrant and engaging film about the making of the musical and the preservation of Alexander Hamilton’s legacy. Compare and contrast stories of immigration while learning about Alexander Hamilton’s upbringing and his journey as an immigrant from the Caribbean to North America; explore the legacy of the Founding Fathers George Washington and Thomas Jefferson while weighing their contributions and flaws; and learn how George Washington and Alexander Hamilton’s relationship became key to the American victory in the Revolutionary War.

Crash Course US History Collection

Grades 6-12
The Crash Course US History Collection is a series of 47 videos all about the history of the United States — from the beginning of the Spanish colonization to the Obama Administration. Kick off this July 4th by learning about the beginnings of our nation, from the Prelude to the Revolution, to Who Won the American Revolution, and The Constitution, Articles of Confederation, and Federalism.