http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th Independence Day, commonly known as July 4th or the Fourth of July, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Regarded as the birthday of the United States of America, the day is celebrated with parades,… en Copyright 2013, History.com Wed, 19 Jun 2013 04:00:00 GMT History.com 2013-06-19T04:00:00Z en Copyright 2013, History.com http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo1 Americans of all ages have been celebrating Independence Day, commonly known as July 4th or the Fourth of July, for more than 230 years. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo1 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo2 The holiday commemorates a notable and decisive moment in American history: the Continental Congress' adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo2 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo3 The Declaration of Independence served as a formal announcement that the 13 American colonies, which were then at war with Great Britain, were no longer part of the British Empire and would henceforth be free and independent states. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo3 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo4 Thomas Jefferson penned the greater part of the document, working closely with other founding fathers, including Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. It opens with the powerful statement that "all men are created equal" and "endowed with certain unalienable Rights." http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo4 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo5 The declaration included a list of grievances against Britain's King George III, whose unpopular laws, taxes and policies had stirred up the passionate sentiments that fueled the American Revolution. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo5 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo6 According to tradition, the Liberty Bell, which was used to mark important occasions, was rung on July 4, 1776, to summon the people of Philadelphia for a reading of the Declaration of Independence. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo6 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo7 Today, America's birthday is typically celebrated with parades, fireworks, ceremonies, barbecues, athletic events and family gatherings. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo7 http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo8 In many cities and towns across the country, fireworks are a major part of the traditional Fourth of July celebration. New York City is known for putting on one of the largest and most elaborate displays. http://www.history.com/photos/july-4th/photo8