DAVID POLLACK/K.J. HISTORICAL/CORBIS VIA GETTY IMAGES
PATRIOTIC POSTCARD:
Fireworks feature in this Fourth of July postcard from the early 1900s.
This Fourth of July marks the 250th anniversary of the United States! The holiday is known for its amazing fireworks displays—a tradition that dates back to our country’s founding. In 1776, statesman John Adams wrote a letter suggesting that America’s Independence Day be recognized with “illuminations.” The following year, the Fourth of July was celebrated with fireworks.
These early fireworks were very different from today’s. “They wouldn’t have been as elaborate, exciting, or colorful,” says John Withington, who wrote a book about the history of fireworks. Modern fireworks are made with a wider variety of compounds—substances made up of at least two different elements. When burned, they glow colors like red, green, yellow, and blue. So as you ooh and aah over these sparkling spectacles this July, remember that you’re keeping one of America’s oldest traditions alive.