To my U.S. friends—Happy Independence Day!

Yes, it does sound odd to hear it as “Independence Day” versus “4th of July,” but that’s what it is. Many forget why we celebrate on the day. The federal holiday was established to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, written by the Continental Congress declaring the thirteen American colonies free of British rule and regarding themselves as a new nation—the United States of America.

Now that we’ve finished the history lesson, enjoy your day with your family and friends.