Happy Birthday, America!

Photo by Ron Stroud/Masterfile

On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, establishing the United States as a country independent from Great Britain. On this day, a nation was born. Now we'll show you what it is that makes us truly American, and what the fireworks and barbecues are all about.

Fourth of July Puzzle
Like jigsaw puzzles? They don't get any more patriotic than this one. See if you can complete it. Go ahead, see. More >>

Easy as (Pass the) Pie
Family picnics may be a good time to talk about hereditary diseases that may run in the family. Time to get tested? More >>

Figures of Great Speech
Beyond patriotic inspiration, great speeches are bellwethers of American history, showing where the nation has been and where it is going. More >>

Take the Citizenship Quiz
Do you know the first three words of the Constitution? How about the longest two rivers in the country? Go to this quiz and see if you're a wise citizen. More >>

Civics Lessons
We asked our readers to tell us what they know about civic duty. And they told us. Here's what some of them had to say.
Three Obligations | Privilege | New and Awesome Responsibility