A forgotten 1776 celebration launched America’s booming fireworks tradition
The article discusses the origins of America's fireworks tradition, which began with a meeting of Virginia delegates on May 16, 1776. This event occurred weeks before the Continental Congress declared independence from England. It highlights the grievances faced by Virginians under British rule, leading to the eventual celebration of independence with fireworks.
- ▪The first fireworks tradition in America was established on May 16, 1776.
- ▪Virginia delegates, including James Madison, met to address the chaos and tyranny they faced from the British government.
- ▪The meeting occurred weeks before the official declaration of independence by the Continental Congress.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Opinion A forgotten 1776 celebration launched America’s booming fireworks tradition Virginia's delegates, including James Madison, voted unanimously to declare independence from England on May 15, 1776 By Jane Hampton Cook Fox News Published May 23, 2026 7:00am EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Justice Clarence Thomas speaks at UT Austin for America's 250th anniversary, part 1 Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas delivered a special lecture at the University of Texas at Austin, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and warning of the rise of progressivism.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Fox News.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Fox News
