The things you need to know about American Independence Day

July 4th is the most significant national holiday in the United States. It celebrates the Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776. What's the story behind it? The original United States of America was made up of a collection of East Coast states known as the Thirteen Colonies. These mainly agricultural colonies were run by the British. In 1775, a War of Independence against Britain was declared. The next year, the Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 representatives of thirteen self-styled states. In 1938, it became a paid holiday across the country. How do people celebrate it today? Firework displays and parties are the most well-known activities associated with Independence Day. All major cities have fireworks displays.