To mark the Semiquincentennial, or 250^th anniversary of American independence, the DeGolyer Library has chosen to focus on the Fourth of July oration, a time-honored genre that began in the 18^th century and has continued, in one form or another, up until the present.  Especially popular in New England, Fourth of July orations were given (and printed) in all parts of the country, North, South, East, and West. While often formulaic—the rising glory of America is a perennial theme—they can also be pointed and critical, especially at times of national division, such as during the years leading up to the Civil War.  As Frederick Douglass memorably put it in an address given July 5, 1852, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”  Even so, no less a figure than John Adams recognized in the Fourth of July oration “remarkable uniformity of principles and sentiments,” pointing us ever closer to that “more perfect Union.”  At the same time, we must acknowledge a parallel current of commercialism in our commemorations, especially in the 20^th century, as parades, fireworks, and shopping opportunities beckon. These too are part of the American experience, as seen in the examples in our four exhibit cases. At the DeGolyer, we invite you to celebrate “these truths.”

For their essential work in creating an online exhibit, thanks go to John Milazzo and Abby May.