Happy Independence Day!
The United States of America declared it's independence with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson penned the document and after some debate, delegates from the 13 original colonies adopted the resolution. Armed conflict had already occurred between British and Colonial troops at famous battlegrounds like Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill. Everyone has heard of the Boston Tea Party where an entire shipment of tea, approximately 92,000 lbs, was dumped into the Boston harbor as a protest against the Tea Act of May 10, 1773. A group known as the Sons of Liberty are said to have organized the demonstration against "taxation without representation" that brought the colonies to the brink of war with Britain.
Among the colonies there were loyalists who supported the crown and there were colonists who fought with the rebellion for independence from the British monarchy. These colonists were known as traitors by the crown, but became patriot heroes to the new American states. Many of these early American patriots faced not only difficult circumstances against a better equipped enemy, but the knowledge that if captured, they would be treated as traitors. Many were captured, tortured, and killed.
Benjamin Franklin said at the time, "We must, indeed, all hang together or, most assuredly, we shall all hang separately."
"These are the times that try men's souls." - Thomas Paine
"There! His Majesty can now read my name without glasses. And, he can double the reward on my head!" - John Hancock after prominently signing the Declaration of Independence
"Three millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us." - Patrick Henry
Independence Day affords us the opportunity to reflect on our freedom and enjoy the blessings of liberty. We hope you have a celebration full of good cheer, fellowship, and delicious food!
All the Best, Team USWM
