KNIGHT MOVES | Independence, history, and awareness in July
August 1, 2025 by agutting@reviewjournal.com
Filed under Extra
By Craig Knight
It’s July, and we’re now more than halfway through 2025 — which officially starts the third quarter in the corporate world. The month begins with the 4th of July, commonly referred to as Independence Day.
America’s independence from the British Empire is commemorated on this federal holiday. It has changed throughout the previous 249 years into a broader expression of pride and patriotism.
It is a common misconception that the delegates decided to pursue independence on July 2, 1776. The National Archives state that the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence two days later, on July 4, albeit with significant changes. However, only two delegates — secretary Charles Thompson and president John Hancock, respectively — signed the agreement at that time. Hancock wrote first, creating the expression “to put your John Hancock on _______,” which means to sign something with a bold, huge script.
Delegates finally started signing the paper on August 2, 1776. John Adams predicted that July 2, the anniversary of the vote for independence (not the adoption of the Declaration of Independence), would be the day for the annual celebration of independence. Adams predicted in a letter to his wife, Abigail, that the festivities would feature sports, bonfires, parades, and fireworks — many of which are still common Fourth of July traditions today.
Several awareness months fall in July, including National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month — which draws attention to the particular struggles that racial and ethnic minorities in the U.S. confront when it comes to mental illness. There’s also Disability Pride Month, Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month, National Ice Cream Month, and National Grilling Month.
Congratulations to the Oklahoma City Thunder, your 2025 NBA champions — and to Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander!
Lastly, as we celebrate the nation’s 249th birthday, summer grilling, and all of the awareness in July, let’s remember to do it responsibly!
Until the next edition of Knight Moves, educate yourself and share the knowledge with others. God bless you!
