Several years ago, a Gallup Poll asked Americans if they could identify the specific historical event celebrated on July 4th. Fifty-five percent said it commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence (this is a common misconception and close to being accurate; July 4th is actually the date in 1776 when the Continental Congress approved the Declaration, which was officially signed on August 2.) Another 32 percent gave a more general answer, saying that July 4th celebrates Independence Day.

Whether you’re sure or not about the complexities of this summer holiday, there’s always something new to learn or to test your knowledge. The following sites are only a sampling that have factual and fun information for everyone. Take a look and give new — or renewed — appreciation and depth to the holiday often only associated with fireworks, hotdogs and potato salad!

THE THREE IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
The Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom is the permanent home of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States and Bill of Rights. These three documents, known collectively as the Charters of Freedom, have secured the rights of the American people for more than two and a quarter centuries.
• The Declaration announced to the world on July 4, 1776, that 13 British colonies in North America were leaving Great Britain to form a separate nation called the United States of America. In justifying the revolution, the Declaration asserted a universal truth about human rights.
• The Constitution, drafted in 1787 after a hard-won victory in the War for Independence, promoted the welfare of all the Constitution's citizens.
• The Bill of Rights, added to the Constitution in 1791 as the first 10 amendments, explicitly protected freedom of speech, press, religion and assembly.c o n t i n u e d