Every year, Americans come together to celebrate the ratification of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This long-standing holiday is marked by barbecues, picnics, displays of American flags and patriotic symbols, and, of course, dazzling firework displays.
But when and where were fireworks invented? How long have they been part of Independence Day festivities? Let’s briefly explore the history of this summertime staple.
What Constitutes a Firework?
Merriam-Webster defines fireworks as devices for producing a striking display by the combustion of explosive or flammable compositions. Fireworks typically contain pellets made of color-producing salts, oxidizers, fuel, and a binder that holds everything together. The color-producing compounds used in fireworks include strontium (red), charcoal or iron (gold), barium (green), and potassium (violet). Iron powder is often used in sparklers, and zirconium is used in βwaterfallβ fireworks.
The Origins of Fireworks
The origin of these spectacular pyrotechnics dates back to the Song dynasty in China, around the 11th and 12th centuries, in the form of gunpowder contained in rolled paper. Visitors to China were often bewildered and stunned by these displays.
By the 14th century, fireworks had spread to Europe, where they began to be incorporated into religious occasions and public displays. As the science of chemistry developed, these advancements improved the production and effectiveness of fireworks.
Fireworks in Early America
Even before the American Revolution, settlers used fireworks to mark important events. The most prominent occasion for these combustible displays was the Independence Day festivities on July 4, 1777.
Founding Father John Adams (1735-1826) believed that the celebration of the nationβs independence should be spectacular. Although he was mistaken by two days, Adamsβ vision of immense national celebrations for the founding of the United States came true. Not everyone was content with the explosive patriotism, however, and consumer fireworks began to cause issues among the public, leading to criticism.
The second day of July 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It out to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It out to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.
JOHN ADAMS | FOUNDING FATHER, 2ND PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
Calls for Safety
In 1903, Pennsylvania legislator Charles Pennypacker sent a letter to the Philadelphia Inquirer, encouraging a βsafe and saneβ approach to celebrating Independence Day: βA spurious patriotism has brought a day of terror, misery, noise, destruction, and death.β The following year, on July 3, 1904, a group of people gathered outside Pennypackerβs home and set off fireworks shortly after midnight, disrupting the neighborhood.
Pennypackerβs concerns were not unfounded. Fireworks were and still are dangerous. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 10,000 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2023, most occurring around the Fourth of July. These concerns have led some states, like Massachusetts, to ban consumer fireworks entirely since 1943.
A Tradition of Celebration
Since July 4, 1777, Americans have gathered to celebrate the day the United States declared independence from England. Each year, this momentous occasion is marked with music, food, and, most excitingly, vibrant firework displays. Now that you know a bit more about the history of pyrotechnics, enjoy your Fourth of July celebration safely!
Matt Pinner is a dedicated journalist for WVPrepBB.com, specializing in USA and crime news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the truth, Matt brings timely and insightful reporting to his readers. His work on WVPrepBB.com keeps the community informed and engaged with the latest developments in national news and criminal justice.
