USA celebrates 245th Independence day

The United States of America has celebrated its 245th Independence day yesterday. The celebration of Fourth of July honours the signing of the American Declaration of Independence by the founding fathers of the US on 4 July, 1776. It declared that the 13 American colonies were no longer part of the British Empire.

Among the many names Thomas Jefferson, who was a renowned statesman and diplomat along with political philosopher Benjamin Franklin, renounced the British Empire and pronounced the North American colonies as free states.

Fireworks are considered to be very important part of the Independence Day celebration in US history and tradition. It was in Philadelphia city that the tradition to set off fireworks started on 4 July, 1777. It was during the first organised



celebration of Independence Day, when a salute of 13 gunshots was conducted in the morning and evening.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his greetings to US President  Joe Biden and the people of US on their 245th Independence Day. In his message,  Mr Modi said as vibrant democracies, India and the US share values of freedom and liberty. He said India-US strategic partnership has a truly global significance.

External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar has conveyed his warm wishes to the government and people of the USA on their Independence Day yesterday. In a tweet, he expressed confidence that the strong partnership of India and US which is based on shared values and interests will continue to grow further.