Happy Fourth of July Images from Decades Past
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It doesn't matter what side of the political spectrum you're on — most people can agree that Independence Day in the United States is filled with festivities, fun and plenty of fireworks.
People have celebrated this country's birthday with picnics and parades since Day 1. Check out some photos from decades past to see how your ancestors spent their happy Fourth of July holiday.
Appetizing on a Hot July Day
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One pack, three choices — Neapolitan ice cream for Independence Day.
Watching the Parade
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Bikes make a perfect platform for watching any parade.
A Very Victorian Fourth
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Fourth of July celebrations may have been simple at the turn of last century, but they were no less festive.
Letting Her Freak Flag Fly
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She must have been conveying her patriotism around town. Note that she is on roller skates.
Tricycle Parade Group
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These proud kids strutted their patriotic stuff during an Independence Day parade in the 1940s.
The Best Seat on the Parade Route
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If you were able to swing this ride, you were the coolest kid on the block.
Neighborhood Fife and Drum Corps
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Fourth of July entertainment without ever having to leave your yard.
The Importance of Picking Out the Best Fireworks
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What you got could make or break your Independence Day celebration.
Lady Liberty and Friends
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Fourth of July pageantry courtesy of 1940s schoolchildren.
Eating Up Independence Day
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Pie-eating contests were always a highlight of any Independence Day celebration.
Gearing Up for One Big Holiday Bonfire
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Celebrating Fourth of July before there were any safety measures in place.
Maybe Not the Best Choice of Headgear
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Don't get near her with a match.
Strange Independence Day Advertising
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Sure, they were part of a grand parade procession, but where were the showers?
Bette Davis and Some Serious Fireworks
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Having a "blast" on the beach with Bette Davis.
The Patriotic Singing Kaydees
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The Kaydees' songs about dairy products could have been chart-toppers.
Nothing More Fun Than Sparklers
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One of the best parts of Fourth of July — your own sparklers.
The Floating Fathers
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Going that extra mile with costumes and really getting into the Fourth of July Spirit.
Strike Up the Band
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Every Independence Day celebration needs a band to fire up the crowd.
A Fourth of July Balancing Act
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Patriotism isn't for land only. You can even achieve it on water.
She's a Grand Old Flag
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Fourth of July fashion around the turn of the last century.
Cover Your Ears
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An explosive Fourth of July party on the beach in Santa Monica.
A Classic Independence Day Barbecue
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People used to dress up for any event, including a backyard barbecue.
Clowning Around in the Fourth of July Parade
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A patriotic clown and his posse.
A Message From Mayberry
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Andy and Opie wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July.