Celebrating the 4th with Fireworks

Did you know that fireworks have been around for over 2,000 years? Originating in China, they are still widely used in many Chinese celebrations. In fact to this day, the world’s main production of fireworks is in China.

Marco Polo is generally credited with bringing the black gun powder west. The Italians are credited with the first European country to manufacture fireworks.

In Philadelphia, a year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and with the encouragement of Congress, Philadelphia lit up the sky with a “grand exhibition of fireworks which began and concluded with thirteen rockets …” Boston also celebrated that first year with fireworks.

This weekend we are celebrating 234 years of independence. How is your family celebrating this Fourth of July?

History of Fireworks
How Fireworks Work
The First Fireworks on the 4th of July
Fourth of July Celebrations - James R. Heintze