This is the first comprehensive reference work on America’s Independence Day. Bringing attention to persons, places, and events of historical significance, the book focuses on the Fourth of July as it has been commemorated over the span of more than two centuries, starting with the first celebrations: public readings of the Declaration of Independence that occurred within days of its signing.
Biographical sketches feature presidents (and how each celebrated the Fourth) and other politicians, famous soldiers, educators, engineers, scientists, athletes, musicians, and literary figures. Other topics include parks, monuments and statues dedicated on the Fourth; famous speeches and the personalities behind their stories; and general subjects of interest including education, abolition, temperance, African Americans, Native Americans, wars, transportation and holiday catastrophes.

James R. Heintze is librarian emeritus at the American University Library in Washington, D.C. He has written numerous articles, reviews, and several books on American music and culture.

James R. Heintze
Format: softcover (7 x 10)
Pages: 360
Bibliographic Info: 29 photos, appendix, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2013 [2007]
pISBN: 978-0-7864-7716-6
eISBN: 978-1-4766-0855-6
Imprint: McFarland

Acknowledgments      vi
Preface      1

THE ENCYCLOPEDIA      5

Appendix: The Declaration of Independence of the Thirteen Colonies      327
Bibliography      331
Index      333

“comprehensive…the only encyclopedia of its kind…recommended”—Library Journal; “the historical and journalistic emphasis of the encyclopedia provides a special lens through which to view and further understand the meaning of the holiday…recommended”—Booklist; “highly recommended”—Reference Reviews; “recommended”—ARBA; “extensive”—NewsWise; “examines precedents,customs and particular observances of American’s most public holiday…in part a social history of the country at large, but also a portrait of the nation’s public persona…Heintze captures the many meanings that this day of celebration has held…well documented…will serve high school, public and academic libraries”—Lawrence Looks at Books.