The Colonies Rebellion
The first of the British colonies that settled in America was Jamestown, Virginia in 1607. The single settlement grew into thirteen colonies with a 2.5 million population by 1775. Growing tension between Britain and the colonies due to taxation without representation led to the Battles of Lexington and Concord and the Declaration of Independence a year later, establishing the United States of America as its own independent country.
The Declaration of Independence
The 4th of July, 1776 is the date in which the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the final version of the Declaration of Independence. 56 signatures graced the pages of the document declaring the United States’ independence from Britain and King George III. Signatories include Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and the primary author Thomas Jefferson.
The Pennsylvania Evening Post was the first newspaper to print the Declaration of Independence, and a few days after it’s adoption the first public readings of the declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square.
Celebrating Independence
The following year on July 4th, 1777, people celebrated the first independence day that started the patriotic tradition we still observe today. Bonfires were lit, with bells sounding and fireworks going off in celebration. New England towns would go on to compete in building towering bonfires with barrels and casks that led to the tallest bonfires ever recorded, and was a prominent feature of the 4th of July in the 19th and 20th centuries, with some towns still lighting large bonfires to celebrate the 4th.
Popularity of celebrating the 4th increased after the War of 1812, another war between America and Great Britain, as patriotic sentiment heightened at this time. Modern day celebrations continue throughout the United States, with the Macy’s firework display in New York City boasting over 65,000 firework shells launched from five different barges. Though the average town in the US spends about $15,000 on their yearly fireworks displays.
Since 1952, the original Declaration of Independence has resided in the National Archives exhibition hall in Washington, D.C.
Healthy Food and the 4th
Suffering from neck or back pain is often the result of spine related issues, and eating a healthier diet can have a direct impact on the prevention of many back complications. Lowering inflammation in the body in general is good for overall health, and can help when resolving back problems. Getting essential vitamins and nutrients is also an important part of maintaining a healthy spine.
Avoiding foods like fatty red meats that cause inflammation is a start, and choosing more lean alternatives like grass-fed meats, chicken, or fish will help reduce your bodies inflammatory response. Plant based proteins like lentils and beans are another great source of protein. Some of the best anti-inflammatory vegetables include kale, broccoli and spinach which also contain nutrients to fortify spine strength like calcium, magnesium and vitamin D.
Omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids are fats that your body can’t make, and they promote bone health as well as combat inflammation. Fish like mackerel, salmon, and sardines are high in omega-3, and nuts such as almonds, macadamia nuts, pistachios and chia seeds are all high in omega-9.
Avoid Inflammatory Foods
Sugar & high fructose corn syrup are two very common ingredients that cause inflammation, which can lead to a number of problems that include spine issues. Trans fats also cause inflammation, and are found in many margarines, which are then added to processed food to extend their shelf life.
Alcohol in high volumes increases levels of inflammation in the body, as well as causing other numerous health problems. Limiting inflammatory food and drink, while eating more health beneficial foods is essential to build a healthy spine and prevent back issues.