The United States of America is one of the richest nations in the world and it continues to have a great deal of influence in international affairs. Consequently, people want to know more about this huge country that contains a diverse array of populations with different beliefs and ideas. People have their own ideas of what America is like, usually shaped by the movies they have watched and the books they have read. What is clear is that there is a desire to get to know the real America and to uncover interesting facts that might shed some light on what America is really like.
Interesting Facts
When did America become independent from Britain?
America became independent from Britain in 1776.
What was the Declaration of Independence?
This was the formal document signed by the founding fathers to signify that America was now an independent country. However, the actual Declaration was lost, so the copy held in Washington D.C. is a handmade copy of the document. The original was written on hemp paper.
When was the Declaration of Independence signed?
Even though Independence Day is celebrated on July 4th, most people didn’t sign it on this date. Only John Hancock and Charles Thomson signed it on this date; the rest signed it on August 2nd, apart from the final signature which was only added to the Declaration five years later.
Why is Ohio officially the 47th State?
Ohio was actually the 17th state to be admitted to the Union, but no resolution had been passed by Congress to admit Ohio, so it took until August 7th, 1953 for the formal admission of Ohio to take place.
Which explorer is recognized as the first to reach the shores of America?
Although others may have landed there, it is the landing of Christopher Columbus in 1493 which is recognized as the first (see facts about Christopher Columbus).
Where was the first settlement created?
Jamestown, Virginia, is where the first English migrants decided to create a settlement.
Do you have to be a lawyer to be a member of the US Supreme Court?
Well, yes and no. There is no constitutional requirement but since the Senate confirms the appointment of justice, related law background and experience does help. So, the requirement is rather informal and generally favors someone with law experience.
Some interesting firsts…
William McKinley was the first President to ride in a car. The first American President to visit Canada was Warren G. Harding. The first President to be born in a hospital was Jimmy Carter.
More Facts
- The stars on the original American flag were in a circle so all the Colonies would appear equal.
- The White House held its first 4th July party in 1801.
- Benjamin Franklin proposed the turkey as the national bird but was overruled by John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, who recommended the bald eagle.
- Barbecue is also big on Independence Day. Approximately 150 million hot dogs and 700 million pounds of chicken are consumed on this day.
This is only a small sample of all the fascinating facts about the diverse nation of the United States of America; there are many more out there.
