Today marks the 236th anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence.

What many people either forget or overlook is that the American Colonial Army was not finally victorious until 6 years later, with the defeat of the British Army at Yorktown on the 19th of October 1781. A victory only achieved thanks to help from 6,000 French troops and a French fleet of 24 ships. Appropriately enough, the final terms of surrender, granting the Americans full final independence from Britain, was signed in Paris on 3 September 1783.

Even then, it wasn’t until 17 September 1787 that the US Constitution was adopted, but it didn’t take effect until 4 March 1789. Finally, the first 10 Amendments, known as The Bill of Rights – the very foundations of individual freedom in the US – weren’t ratified by enough States to become law until 1791.

So, as important as the 4th of July is, I’ve always thought that we should have a Constitution Day holiday as well…

At any rate, do enjoy your holiday today – and pause to remember all those who sacrificed their lives so that we can enjoy a day off today…

– Lawrence.