At the first July 4 celebration in Philadelphia in 1777, Americans fired a cannon 13 times in honor of the original 13 colonies. Thirteen fireworks were also fired in the city as part of the celebrations. Marina Pitofsky USA TODAY.
During the Revolutionary War, George Washington gave his soldiers a special treat for the holiday. On July 4, 1778, George Washington ordered a double ration of rum for his soldiers. He also ordered a cannon salute to celebrate the occasion. Caroline Simon USA TODAY
Drinking was a large part of historical Fourth of July celebrations — it was traditional to drink 13 toasts, one for each state in the union. Caroline Simon USA TODAY
No matter what your Fourth of July traditions are, or if you’re beginning a new tradition of your own, please make it a happy, healthy and safe holiday!