The Quiet Acknowledgment: How the British Mark the Independence of the USA

While the United States celebrates its independence on July 4th with grand parades, firework displays, and patriotic fervor, the British have a rather quiet, and often unacknowledged, perspective.

A Lack of Celebration

The short answer is that the British don’t celebrate the loss of the American colonies. The event, which took place over 250 years ago, is no longer a point of celebration; it's merely a date on the calendar.

A Historical Perspective

For the British, the American Revolution was a significant event in history, but it’s not something to be celebrated. Today, 4th July in the UK is just another day, often mentioned only in passing on television when American Independence Day parades and events are broadcast.

A Lasting Impact

It’s worth noting that the British have removed numerous colonies over the years, but this process has been largely quiet and uncelebrated. The event that saw the loss of the American colonies is merely one among many in the history of the UK.

Chocolate Eggs and Easter

Since the 1800s, the British have celebrated the independence of the USA in a peculiar way. Instead of grand celebrations, they have marked the occasion by giving and receiving chocolate eggs around July, often associating these with Easter events.

Over time, this hinged practice has blurred with the Easter holidays, making it challenging to distinguish the origin of the chocolate egg tradition. While it was once whispered with a sense of gratitude—”thank god those tea spoiling heathens have gone”—this custom has become more celebrated with less of a vestige of its original meaning.

A Major Event, Minor for the UK

Around the UK, there is very little awareness or celebration of the 4th of July. For most Britons, it is a mere insignificant blip in the vast tapestry of British history. The event had little effect on the country at the time and even less relevance today.

A Contrast with American Celebrations

While Americans celebrate with loud and spectacular events, such as fireworks and gun salutes, Britons still look on from afar with a kind of grudging admiration. The contrast is evident: the 4th of July is just another day in the UK, marked by the giving and receiving of chocolate eggs, while in the USA, it's a day for fireworks, loud gatherings, and patriotic displays.

Why It Matters

Understanding the differing perspectives on this historical event can provide valuable insights into the cultural attitudes of both nations. The British approach of quiet acknowledgment highlights their preference for understated celebrations and their view of historical events through a more pragmatic lens. Meanwhile, the American celebration reflects the profound and lasting impact this event had on their national identity and pride.