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The meaning(s) of the Fourth of July.

JD Breen's avatar
JD Breen
Jul 04, 2025
∙ Paid
Surrender of Vicksburg: July 4, 1863

Atlanta, GA

July 4, 2025

On the Fourth of July, as on any momentous occasion, myths mingle with reality. Even the date we’re supposed to remember was initially in question.

Congress voted for independence two days before it was formally declared. John Adams always thought July 2 the more appropriate day to celebrate, and…

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