pbs.org: History Of The Fourth | A Capitol Fourth | Pbs The history of celebrating Independence Day began in Philadelphia in 1776 with bonfires, bells and fireworks. The custom eventually spread to other towns throughout the nation. Keyword: 1776 , declaration of independence , second continental congress , taxation without representation www.pbs.org/capitolfourth/history.html Add Site or Add URL to Submit Site to the taxation without representation Directory |