I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Independence Day and remind you that the Law Library will be closed tomorrow, July 4, 2008. If you’re here in Provo I recommend taking part in some of the events associated with America’s Freedom Festival. I’ve been to some of the Colonial Days events and tomorrow our family will be off to see the hot-air balloons and the parade.
For some other — more academic — things to do, here are some links from the National Archives website about the Declaration of Independence:
Image of the original Declaration of Independence
Transcript of the Declaration of Independence
“The Declaration of Independence: A History”
Sign the Declaration — (My kids’ favorite)
And if the day gets you in the mood to start a book about the time period, here are a few I have read and enjoyed:
1776 by David McCullough
American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson by Joseph J. Ellis
Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation by Joseph J. Ellis
His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis
John Adams by David McCullough
Patriots: The Men Who Started the American Revolution by A.J. Langguth
The First American: The Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin by H.W. Brands