The Fourth of July: And the Founding of America

The text presents five topical chapters focusing on 4 July and its meaning within American society. The introductory thesis examines and dispels the notion of a "punctual moment" (p. 18) of historic significance. For example, everyone knows the Declaration of Independence was signed by the founding fathers on 4 July 1776--but that is not actually true. The definitive text was approved on 2 July, funding to publish the text was approved on 4 July, and the much recognized, multiply-signed parchment manuscript was not created until several weeks later. And this after prolonged discussion, as well as similar declarations previously issued by other American political entities. The process of America's declaring independence can hardly be said to have been a spontaneous event or punctual moment. Thus, why 4 July? The text answers on several levels, noting that although nothing singular happened on that day, the fourth was as good as another. Certainly, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams felt 4 July was appropriate, though the author argues that enshrining a punctual moment is problematic, for "in that gesture of origination it was almost as if the prehistory of the nation, the history of colonial dependence, was to be erased" (p. 54). The fourth is noted as featuring a fairly stable suite of patriotic iconography. The text enumerates the national flag, the pledge of allegiance, the liberty bell, and Uncle Sam, as examples. The historic underpinnings of the popular myth of Betsy Ross are presented, as is the banal life story of Samuel Wilson--the original Uncle Sam. Indeed, the stories behind these popular icons form some of the most interesting segments of the text. The text then presents a historic recounting of the methods of celebrating 4 July, starting as early as 1777. Bonfires, cannon and musket fire, parades, and lengthy religious oration were early traditions. Fireworks and backyard barbecues are rather late additions. Today, 4 July is recognized as the nation's birthday but the cultural aspects of celebration have changed "...since the proximate contexts of celebration provide an ever changing set of parameters for understanding the rituals and rites of the day" (p. 129). The author also notes the strong religious faith of the founding fathers and the effect this had on the celebration of 4 July which has many quasi-religious overtones. The text concludes with a review of modern-day 4 July celebration events including rock concerts, eating contests, and other events seemingly unrelated to the celebration of independence. A celebration of "...the declaratory act that founds America, created and continues to create an architecture of belief which, for both good and ill, has power to change the world" (p. 172). The scholarly writing is dense and occasionally borders on the opaque. The text features a further reading list, a list of illustrations, and an index.

An excellent book. The author brings out many points about the founding of this country that are just not common knowledge. This book should be required reading in all advanced level high school senior classes.