The story of the birthday of our country is a big story to tell young children. Yet when they begin to ask, "Why do we have a holiday on the Fourth of July?" they have a right to know. They have a right to know that Independence Day is something more than fireworks and picnics.

In telling the story I have used few names and tried to give only a few clear impressions. I have not indicated, therefore, the exact chronology. Older children may learn that Richard Henry Lee's Resolution was voted on July 2nd, the Declaration on the 4th, and that all the states did not sign until August. For younger children it is all "The Fourth of July".

Author's Note from the book