Happy 4th of July to My Patriotic US Friends

By Kamala Sarup

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress, the informal governing body among the 13 rebellious British colonies, approved a "Resolution of Independence" introduced on June 7 by delegate Richard Henry Lee of Virginia. At this time, from the American point of view, the 13 colonies ceased to exist; that is, they were then 13 independent (sovereign) nations.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved a formal Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson and other committee members. This is the first document representing some unity among The United States of America (the first time this name is formally used) and July 4 is the traditional date for celebrating the independence of the U.S.A.

US patriotism, as in other countries, runs from one extreme to another by its citizens; that is from fervent nationalism to utter apathy. Patriotism in the US reaches a high level during a time of war, such as we have in Iraq today, although there are many US critics of this war, especially when the US is not winning. Nevertheless, today and tomorrow there will be millions of flags and buntings displayed all around the US. This week, many TV channels will show many old war movies. Because of the Iraq war, many autos have been displaying the yellow ribbon sticker with the slogan, "Support the troops" for many months, but they become more convincing on July 4.

In general, I'm also a demonstrative person on the subject, so that is consistent. From my readings in history, I try to see the history in every government and economy, including the USA.

"Kamala, here are some events that occurred. Read them. November 15, 1777. Congress approves the Articles of Confederation, which are sent to the states for unanimous ratification. March 1, 1781. The Articles of Confederation become effective with Maryland's ratification, the last of 13 states. This is the first document of the "United States of America". June 21, 1788". Patriotic American Kozawolowski said.

He further added " The first Federal Congress (formally, the "Congress of the United States") meets in New York City at Federal Hall. The U. S. Constitution becomes effective on this date after the Congress is notified by George Washington that 11 states (NY and VA are now included) have ratified the new Constitution. The Confederation Congress under the Articles of Confederation ceases to exist. April 6, 1789. Congress has a quorum in both houses after a delay caused by bad weather. (The House of Representatives had a quorum on April 1.) It counts the electoral votes and announces George Washington president and John Adams V.P". Kozawolowski said.

Congratulations on July 4th to my Patriotic US friends.

Nepali journalist Kamala Sarup associates and writes for mediaforfreedom.com. She is specializes in in-depth reporting and writing on peace, anti-war, women, terrorism, democracy, and development. Some of her publications are: Women's Empowerment in South Asia, Nepal (booklets); Prevention of Trafficking in Women Through Media, (book); Efforts to Prevent Trafficking in for Media Activism (media research). She has also written two collections of stories. http://www.mediaforfreedom.com/

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