My LINKcat AccountI hope you all survived the Fourth of July, and that the heat, humidity, and fireworks didn't overtax you. It's one of those lesser known (or remembered, or recalled) bits of American History that Independence from Great Britain actually occurred when the Second Continental Congress approved a resolution declaring the United States independent put forward by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia ( Great granddaddy of Robert E. Lee) on July 2nd. What actually happened on the 4th of July was the approval of the document - the declaration that explained how the decision was made-by Congress. It wasn't signed until sometime in August. Another interesting bit of American History trivia is that both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, who were signatories of the Declaration as well as presidents, died on the 4th of July, 1826 which was the 50th anniversary of the document. This foundational document of our nation is now celebrated with concerts, firework displays, picnics and barbeques, foot races and parades, as well as Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island. I think sometimes we lose sight of the men who were assembled in that rather small room in the place now known as Independence Hall, in that sultry Philadelphian summer of 1776 who mutually pledged to each other their Lives, their Fortunes and their sacred Honor. I hope during all the celebrating you had a moment to reflect on the cause of all the celebrating! Below you will find some books to help you through this sultry summer in Wisconsin. Enjoy!
