Summary
<p>Ready, set… start eating hot dogs and celebrating our nation’s independence! In the 1770s, tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain escalated as colonists protested taxation without representation. Those disputes turned into open conflict at Lexington and Concord, and eventually led colonial leaders to declare independence. The Declaration of Independence, drafted and approved by the Founding Fathers, put forward the idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed. It was approved on July 4, which became a day to celebrate the country's independence. Early July Fourth celebrations began in Philadelphia and gradually spread across the country, bringing with them traditions like parades, fireworks, cookouts. Press “play” to learn more about the history behind this patriotic holiday. </p>
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Independence Day:
- What is one new thing you learned about independence day?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining independence day.
- Draw or give one example of your own.