Known now as a day of patriotism and enjoying time off from work, the Fourth of July began the journey to becoming a quintessential American holiday in 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.

Across the US, Americans are gearing up for a weekend of 4th of July celebrations, with barbecues, parades and fireworks on the cards. But beyond the festivities, the holiday marks a key moment in the country’s history — the day the United States declared independence from British rule.