The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of the continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.

John Quincy Adams

John Quincy Adams

Related Quotes

To many people holidays are not voyages of discovery, but a ritual of reassurance.

— Philip Andrew Adams

All the public business in Congress now connects itself with intrigues, and there is great danger that the whole government will degenerate into a struggle of cabals

— John Quincy Adams

BusinessCongressDanger

To furnish the means of acquiring knowledge is ... the greatest benefit that can be conferred upon mankind. It prolongs life itself and enlarges the sphere of existence.

— John Quincy Adams

benefitknowledgeprolong

We understand now, we've been made to understand, and to embrace the understanding that who we are is who we were.

— John Quincy Adams

Courage and perseverance have a magical talisman, before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish into air.

— John Quincy Adams