#court of darkness 4th anniversary celebration
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✧˚ · . A Letter from Fenn ✧˚ · .
Congratulations, @6zarabellaa9 ! You have been selected to receive a confession letter as part of our 4th Anniversary Celebration Draw for the English version of the game.
Please enjoy!
.·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·.
Treasure,
As I pen these words, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions that are both exhilarating and terrifying. You see, in a place where flirtation is as common as the air we breathe, I have become something of a performer—dancing through the halls of the academy, showering charming smiles upon those who seek my attention. But beneath this facade lies a heart that yearns for something far more profound than the fleeting affections I’ve feigned.
I’ve grown weary of being seen as just a flirt, a charming prince playing a role. The truth is, I am haunted by the shadows of my upbringing, where love was a game played by many, but felt by few. My father, with his countless wives, taught me that devotion is merely a concept, an illusion easily discarded. Yet, in the depths of my soul, I crave authenticity. I wish to love and to be loved in return, without the shackles of expectation.
It is you, Treasure, who has captivated me amidst this masquerade. Your laughter, your kindness, and the way you see through the veil I wear—these are the things that have touched my heart. You make me wish to shed the charming prince and reveal the vulnerable man beneath. I want to share my world with you, a world where I need not entertain dozens but can cherish just one.
I understand that my reputation may precede me, that you may doubt my sincerity. But know this: I am not asking you to be one of many; I am asking you to be the only one. To let us explore the depths of a connection that is genuine and profound, rather than a mere dalliance.
If you choose to look beyond the surface, to see the man beneath the prince, I promise to show you a love that is unwavering and true. I wish to build a bond that thrives on honesty, trust, and shared dreams.
Please consider my confession, not as a whimsical flirtation, but as the heartfelt plea of a prince longing for authenticity in a world that often overlooks it.
Won’t you answer me, Treasure?
Longing for you,
Fenn Luxure
#court of darkness#court of darkness voltage#ask court of darkness#incorrect court of darkness#codvn#ask the princes#date with fenn#ask fenn luxure#fenn modea#fenn luxure#court of darkness 4th anniversary celebration#court of darkness 4th anniversary#4th anniversary celebration
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Ask Game
I was tagged by the beautiful and talented @im-a-goner-foryou (and can we just take a minute to appreciate the perfection that is Lily? Just WOW)
Name: Jordanna Antonia, though Danni to you lovely lot
Zodiac Sign: Pisces. Forever a dreamer
Favorite Food: my mama makes a mean Paella
Jeans or Shorts: Jeans! My thighs rub like hell in shorts so...
Where Are You From? Dreary old England, but my ties to Spain remain strong as ever
Last Book You Read: I just finished two books, one was Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon (sensational) and my favorite book (for what must be the 1000th time) The Catcher In The Rye by J.D. Salinger
Favorite Movie: Such a hard question, it jumps between Ferris Buellers Day Off, Good Will Hunting, and Oceans Eleven (depending on the day of the week)
Dream Vacation: I would love to see more of Europe, or a road trip across the states probably
Eye Colour: Multi-coloured? My mama always said they were ‘petrol’ coloured, they have a bit of everything in them
Natural Hair Colour: Dark Blonde, how boring
Height: Fucking Short. like 5′1 maybe?
Introvert of Extrovert: Introvert
Tea or Coffee: Give me the sweet bean juice. Coffee. Always Coffee
Do You Work Out Regularly? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA no. I’d like to, but my distinct lack of motivation and drive being my defining character trait, want to and will are two very different things.
Favourite Beverage: Liquor 43 all the way. The sweetest burn... For non alcoholic, gasoline uhhhh probably a huge hazelnut latte from Costa
Do You Have Pets? I have two beautiful Cats, Pickle and her daughter Lenny, and I did have a dog, my sweet girl Lemon who I’ve had pretty much my whole life, but she passed a week ago. Always in my heart <3
Your Ideal Day Off: Depending on my mood, it’s either going on an adventure with my better half and best mate, or curling up in my clean room in clean sheets reading a good book or watching a good film
In A Relationship or Single: My Doll and I just celebrated our 4th Anniversary in January <3
Something unique about me: despite the fact that I never post my writing on tumblr/don’t get requests and stuff, I am actually a writer, working on 3 original novels, and I aspire to be published by the time I’m 25 (unlikely but a girl can dream)
If you choose to, post a selfie: sorry about my face yo
Thank you again for the tag Lily! Imma tag @commandernova @mrpeterstark @holdmesamthatwasbeautiful @scarletmanuka1 @palace-court cheers ✌
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THE DARKNESS IS OVER
WF THOUGHTS (11/7/20).
It's Saturday. The election was last Tuesday. Today, at 11:26 a.m., the major news organizations began to declare their "projections" that Joe Biden would be our 46th president. By 11:50 a.m., even Trump's friends at Fox News were "projecting" that Biden was the winner.
The news agencies resort to "projections" because none of the vote counts are "officially finalized" yet. Such "projections" are not made unless the news organizations are 100% certain of the outcome. Thus, it is now absolutely certain that Joe Biden will be our next president. (All of Trump's legal challenges will fail.)
As the day was unfolding, I was thinking back to some chats that I had with an acquaintance in the early 1990's. Let me tell you the story. It's perfect for today.
In the late 1970's, my acquaintance and his young wife were stationed in Japan. He was in the Army. About 18 months before he was due to return to the United States, the wife became pregnant with their first child. The child, a son, was born about 9 months before their planned return.
When he was about a month old, the boy started to have health problems. Almost every week, for a few days, he'd spike a fever and have respiratory issues. In between the episodes, he was fine. The doctors at the military hospital couldn't figure it out. One theory was allergies. Another theory was an overactive immune system. Either way, the doctors thought that the kid would outgrow the problem.
The family got back to Boston, their hometown, when the child was about 9 months old. His symptoms had become more pronounced. At Boston Children's Hospital, the pediatric specialists immediately identified the problem. It was an extremely rare blood disease that experts had been studying for years. Worldwide, only a handful of children were affected each year.
The parents received the diagnosis on the child's first birthday. Then they got the bad news. The only known treatment was an experimental drug that was only effective 25% of the time. If the drug didn't work, most children with the affliction died before their 5th birthday.
Of course, the parents started the drug treatment program. The protocol called for the child to take the drugs until his 4th birthday. A blood test a year later, near the child's 5th birthday, would determine whether the blood disease had been permanently eradicated.
My acquaintance told me about his daily life during this ordeal. He described it as a period of constant darkness and unease. He always felt unsettled. No matter what he did, he couldn't escape the black cloud that was following him. The dark cloud followed him to every meal, every meeting, every workout, every birthday, every Mass, and every anniversary. The constant unease disrupted every aspect of his life.
Thankfully, the final blood test was good news. The drugs worked. The boy was cured. When I was working with this acquaintance, his son was almost 20 and he was 100% healthy.
I'll always remember what my acquaintance said about the day he got the results of the final blood tests. Of course he was jubilant and hysterically happy. Those responses were predictable. What surprised him was his delight at feeling "normal" again. The black cloud was gone. The weight that he had been carrying, every single day, was gone. He was thrilled to be normal again. He hadn't been normal for such a long time. When he hit the street after the very happy visit with the doctor, he stood on the corner screaming "YAHOO." He stood there, screaming, for 10 minutes before his embarrassed wife dragged him to the car.
When Biden was declared the winner today, Americans went into the streets to cheer. It happened all over America. I was cheering, with a group of 30 or 40 others, on the main drag in Greenville, South Carolina.
I've lived through presidential elections before. This is the first time I've seen cheering in the streets. Why is this time so different? Why has there been such an emotional reaction to Biden's victory?
For millions of Americans, the commencement of Trump's presidency was the equivalent of an announcement that a terrible disease had infected our White House, our democracy, and our country. Our White House was suddenly occupied by a man who lies every day, picks fights every day, uses immature nicknames every day, and acts like a bully every day. It was embarrassing that he was elected. From the very start, on a daily basis, Trump disrespected his own office, the courts, Congress, and the free press. He refused to recognize the apolitical nature of the Justice Department, the FBI, the CIA, the National Security Agencies, and the State Department. Instead, he sought to use those entities as his personal political tools. Our democracy was under attack by our own president! Every day, our country was barraged with tweets from the poisonous president. Every day, his presence in the White House filled the country with negativity, anger, and overall discomfort. It was disturbing. We lost touch with normalcy.
Please note that I've said nothing about Trump's alleged policy positions. We all know that Trump didn't really have any policy positions. He announced his reelection campaign on inauguration day, and his only policy was to get himself reelected. Because he thought certain positions would help him gain reelection, his "policies" included: acting like thug; stoking racism; attacking minorities and immigrants; alienating America from the rest of the world; discriminating against Muslims; helping the rich, and punishing the poor and the infirm. Even Trump's own appointees couldn't tolerate or support his "policy" positions. The high offices in the White House and in The Cabinet were like a revolving door. The president who promised us "the best people" couldn't find respectable people to do his selfish political bidding. The disappearance of all responsible adults from the White House caused Americans to worry even more.
For the majority of Americans, the announcement of Biden's victory was like getting good news from the doctor. President Trump, the primary source of poison in America, would soon be removed from office. All of the terrible stuff will end. The ordeal will be over. Hallelujah!
As soon as Bidens victory was confirmed, I felt different. Didn't you? The black cloud was gone. The heavy weight was lifted. The sun came out. In a single moment, the future looked brighter. We had escaped from the awful possibility that we'd have to live with Team Trump for another four years. A Trump victory would have been crushing.
With Biden's victory, a breath of fresh air swept across America. Don't take my word for it. Go online. Look at the pictures. All across America, people are in the streets cheering and celebrating. Never before has there been such jubilation over the defeat of an American president. Such widespread celebrations are living proof of the darkness that we all endured under his regime. The darkness is over.
Biden is not perfect, and our political system is very broken. For today, I'm going to push those problems aside and enjoy the brilliant sunshine that has emerged. I'm going to enjoy the fresh air. Some may disagree with Biden's policy views, but it is undeniable that he will act with dignity, respect, civility, and compassion. Isn't it strange that so many of us are celebrating decency and normalcy? That shows how toxic, how poisonous, America had become under Trump.
America has been healed. I am so very thankful that Americans had the guts to withstand and fight the infection. YAHOO! YAHOO! YAHOO!
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The One With the Decade Ending
Since we are just days away from 2020, I wanted to reflect on the past 10 years.
2010: Took my life in my hands and jump started my weight loss journey. Was in my second semester of college, still unsure of my future career goals but tackling 19 credit hours with a 3.97 GPA. That summer, my grandma had her first of 3 heart attacks and I took care of her. My insistence of getting her up to walk is what lead me to choosing a path in nursing. She thought I would be an excellent nurse with my no BS attitude. I became an RA to cut down on student loans and to live roommate free since I had the best freshman roommate ever and didn’t want to risk meeting someone awful. Our different majors took us out of the same dorm. Thanksgiving break my grandma had her second heart attack and this encouraged me to work harder to get into nursing school.
2011: I lost my brother in January due to medical negligence in Florida. In April, I lost my grandma to her third and final heart attack. I didn’t show up to any of my finals because everything happened during finals week. My GPA wasn’t wrecked completely, as my grades were high enough without my finals. Some let me take the test later due to the circumstances, others said my percentage was already high and not to worry about it. I spiraled down a dark path of binge drinking and not really sleeping for a few months. My family was torn apart. The dynamic was weird. I lost who I was. I had to be the strongest person for everyone even though my grandma was my best friend and I was wrecked the most from the lost. My mom decided all attention needed to be on her despite the fact she hated my grandma. I moved back home and commuted to school. I turned 21 in October and gained a sense of confidence to go after a guy I wanted for 5 years. I was admitted into nursing school in December and would start in January.
2012: Most of the beginning months are a blur. I studied my ass off for nursing. It was truly a struggle and I had to rewire the way I thought and studied. Most difficult time of my life. My boyfriend had cheated on me and we broke up. We ended up getting back together and then I cheated on him during my friends bachelorette party. My friend got married and my boyfriend and I ended up getting an apartment together. I found my second cat in the dumpster of our complex. We saved each other and my ex hated him. Our relationship ended a month later but he refused to move out and I wasn’t moving back home. So we coexisted and then I found out just how much of a psychopath he actually was. November came and I met the love of my life - I just didn’t know it at the time.
2013: The love of my life and I decided to see each other casually. Neither of us wanted anything serious, or so he claimed. In February I fell in love with him. We had a difficult relationship and just fought all the time. In May, I took a random roadtrip to NYC. Then in June I moved in with him because he didn’t like my living situation. It didn’t feel right so I moved out again. He accused me of cheating on him and I never worked so hard to prove to him or anyone I wasn’t. He adopted a cat because my two made him want a cat of his own. In July, we gave living together another shot. Things just ended up working and the fighting stopped. In October, my friend found a kitten on her porch and my boyfriend fell in love with her so we then had 4 cats and a dog. Also, unbeknownst to me at the time, he started planning how he was going to propose. He got his best friend and mine involved.
2014: I graduated with my bachelors and was admitted into a grad program for teaching. It was an accelerated program of the bach of ed. My dog attacked my kitten and I spent many days in and out of veterinary hospitals. I started dreaming of working in one. I had no passion for nursing after my grandma’s death and thought I needed a career change. Teaching was always an interest as well. After I graduated and before I started grad school, I went to NYC with 2 of my friends. My boyfriend and his friend were also in NYC, but as a surprise. I was proposed to in Central Park. I started grad school and realized that it was not a good decision and dropped out after one semester. I revisited different desires I had in a career in what I wanted to be when I grew up as a kid. In November I started volunteering at a local vet clinic to see if vet med would be a good place for me. I clicked instantly with all the staff and never felt more at home than I had at that time.
2015: Well, to be honest I don’t remember much of 2015. I focused on vet school prereqs and applied to go on a trip to Thailand to work with elephants. I was accepted for the May 2016 trip. I also applied to OSU vet school and was given an interview invitation. My fiance and I started looking at houses to buy. We had complications with one, as the owners we not ok with the “low” appraisal and tried to get us to pay $30k more due to their own sentiments. We declined and decided to keep searching. We put an offer on another house, we were due to close and the day of the lender told us since my fiance was technically a contract to hire it wasn’t going to be closed that day. We said forget it, it’s not our time to buy a house. A week later, that house flooded causing thousands in water damage. A blessing in disguise.
2016: I was accepted to OSU vet school for the class of 2020. I was offered a job at the clinic I volunteered at. I had the best time in Thailand treating elephants and helping at a spay/neuter clinic, all under the supervision and advisement of a veterinarian. Thailand has less strict laws on what people without a license may do. I started paying back my student loans, which were over $100k already. I had decided it wasn’t the right time for vet school because I didn’t want the extra debt. I started being smart about money. I married my best friend in December.
2017: We spent the first 6 months traveling to places new and old. Vegas, Boston, and San Francisco were all new. In January, a sickly kitten appeared on my porch and wanted to meet my cats desperately. He went into the back yard and I was fearful my dog would kill him. I brought him inside and kept him in the bathroom until I could get a clean bill of health on him. We decided to keep him as I was convinced cats find me when I need them the most. In April, my sister committed suicide leaving behind 3 children. In June, my husband was offered a job in California. He accepted. In August we lived just north of San Francisco. In October, I was woken up in the middle of the night by a wild fire. I was on the verge of evacuation and my husband was in Chicago for work. He flew home that day. The smoke was so terrible for months and going outside was not advised. We went whale watching for our 1 year anniversary. We didn’t receive any of our belongings until Christmas Eve. I hated living there and just wanted to go home. My husband loved living there.
2018: I was finally starting to love California. I was making friends and looking forward to exploring. I got my dog in a routine. Things were looking up.The smoke was still bad but if we went south of the bay it was ok. My husband started hating it because his job was awful. In February I said goodbye to my childhood cat. I flew home on an emergency because my dad was having his 4th open heart surgery. I wanted to see him because I had a gut feeling he wasn’t going to make it. He was admitted into the hospital in preparation. He acquired an affection to his Dr. ordered antibiotics to cover the bases. In March he finally had his surgery, after a month in the hospital. He came out of surgery just fine. Over the weekend, he started to go down hill. On Wednesday March 21, I walked into work, my cousin called me to tell me his kidneys were failing and he was going septic. I promptly walked out of work, called my husband to come get me as we carpooled and booked a flight home. I landed and went right to the hospital. A half hour later I took him off life support said goodbye to my dad. I planned his funeral and had to fly home the day after it. A week later, I said goodbye to my childhood dog. My husband decided we should move home because I had gained guardianship of my niece and nephew. My dad was my niece’s best friend. Losing her mother and her grandfather less than a year apart took its toll. In May we decided to explore a bit of California. We visited Yosemite and that sparked my desire to visit every national park. In June we moved back to Ohio and I went back to my old job. In August I was hired at a major hospital in the cardiovascular ICU. My husband fought in court to gain custody of his daughter. I started my own side photography business which was responded to very well. I visited NYC with my friend, her boyfriend, and my husband.
2019: I wasn’t adjusting to night shift well. I was lonely and with my own thoughts too often. In March I miscarried and was depressed for many months. I started to try to craft more as a creative outlet and found I love woodworking. I picked up running again and stuck to it. In May I went back to NYC. I ran my first race ever in June. Also in June, I visited Mackinaw Island and the UP with my friend and we visited some of her grandma’s childhood. I left night shift and started working day shift, still in the ICU. In July, I joined a group that takes shelter dogs out for runs or hikes. In August, I ran my first half marathon. In September, I ran my second. In October, I planned a trip to Quebec for my birthday. After some mishaps and difficulties booking a hotel (there was a marathon that weekend) I said forget it and planned a different trip. I went to Shenandoah, Washington D.C. and Great Falls Park with my husband and my dog. My grandma celebrated her 93rd birthday. In November I sprained my foot but decided to run a half marathon anyway. It got to the point I could no longer walk, and thus ending my running season prematurely. I signed up for a full marathon in 2020 despite that. In December, I went back to NYC. My foot was finally healing so I began running again.
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July 4th 2019: How a tax on playing cards and a thwarted tea shipment led to American Independence Day
July 4 1776 was a prominent day in American history, as the 13 colonies successfully claimed their independence from the British Empire. In what is now known as Independence Day, the US' most beloved national holiday is celebrated annually on the Fourth of July, with millions of Americans coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of their nation. From the history behind America's independence to the modern celebrations, here is everything you need to know. What is Independence Day? Independence Day commemorates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Introduced by the Second Continental Congress, the statement outlined that the 13 American colonies were united, independent states, who were no longer subject to British monarch. Recognised annually by Americans, fireworks, parades and other patriotic celebrations are held every year on the Fourth of July to celebrate the colonies breaking free from British control. Why did the Americans want independence? The relationship between the settlers and British had been amicable, however tensions started to escalate over the imposition of British laws and taxes. To help control settlements in the western territories, King George III introduced the Royal Proclamation of 1763, preventing the colonists settling along the Appalachian Mountains. After the French and Indian War came to a close, the Quartering Act was passed in 1765, ordering the American colonies to help house the British soldiers. Also in 1765, Britain then introduced the Stamp Act to help handle war debts; this required colonists to pay a tax on printed paper including newspapers, licenses and playing cards. Colonial governor Thomas Hutchinson (1711 - 1780) escaping from local rioters after demanding Stamp Tax from them Credit: Getty Images/Hulton Archive Unsurprisingly, the colonists were not pleased. 'No taxation without representation' became the cry around 1765 after a rise in Britain's national debt forced the colonists to raise import tariffs and crack down on smuggling to raise funds. There was also a growing sense of nationalism in these largely agricultural colonies and acts of American colonial defiance began in the form of rebellions, fighting and protests. Social unrest escalated further in 1773, when patriots in Boston famously destroyed a shipment of tea by boarding three ships in Boston harbour and throwing 342 chests overboard in protest over the Tea Act. This became known as the 'Boston Tea Party'. These rebellions over taxes led to full-scale revolutionary war. What happened in the Revolutionary War? Determined to fight for their independence, Great Britain’s 13 North American Colonies fought for control over colonial affairs. They included: New Hampshire Massachusetts Connecticut Rhode Island New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia George Washington led the American forces to victory and, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Thomas Jefferson, France and Spain acted as allies, providing arms for the war. Independence was formally declared on July 2 1776; on July 4 1776, the final version of the Declaration was approved by Congress, announcing that the 13 colonies were free from British rule. While the Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Independence, most of the Congress members actually signed the document on August 2, 1776. Following the Declaration of Independence, they went on to become the United States of America – however conflict continued up until 1783. How is the day celebrated in the US? In what was a simple but powerful mark of respect to each of the colonies, 13 gunshots were fired as part of the first celebration of independence on July 4 1777, a year after the Declaration of Independence was approved. George Washington commemorated the Fourth of July the following year in 1778 by ordering a double ration of rum for his soldiers at Ross Hall, near New Jersey. Meanwhile outside the US, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams organised a celebratory dinner for Americans in Paris. The Fourth of July was officially acknowledged as a state celebration by the Massachusetts General Court in 1781, and Moravians in North Carolina, observed the day with The Psalm of Joy music programme in 1783. Nearly 100 years on from the Declaration’s approval, Independence Day was made an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and it was later established as a paid holiday by US Congress in 1938. Nowadays it's typically marked by patriotic activities - usually outside. Think parades, camping, barbecues, beers and fireworks, with as much red, white and blue as possible - all punctuated with a backing track of "Star spangled banner", "Yankee Doodle" and "God Bless America". Politicians also like to make a point of appearing at Independence Day celebrations and praising the nation's heritage, history and people. Who celebrates it apart from Americans? The Philippines and Rwanda also observe Fourth of July anniversaries for their own reasons. The US gave the Philippines independence on that day in 1946 and the Rwandan genocide ended with US help on July 4 1994. Rather more bizarrely, Denmark also celebrates the US version - it started with European expats in 1911, but now is just an "excuse for a nice day out". When is Britain's Independence Day? Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage made a case for the 23rd June to be Britain's Independence Day in 2016, because that was the date of the 2016 Brexit vote in which he said the nation "took back control" from the European Union. However, he was criticised by some who pointed out that liberation from colonial ownership was not really equivalent to Brexit. And the point that most independence anniversaries around the world celebrate breaking from the British Empire has also been well made. Best American recipes for Independence Day From sweet treats to traditional dishes, the US is famous for its cuisine, with Americans tucking into an array of classic foods every year on Independence Day. If you're celebrating the Fourth of July in the UK, here are some of our favourite American recipes to try and taste with your family and friends. Perfect homemade beef burgers Juicy beefburgers, served with roughly torn lettuce, ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced mile cheese in a bun of your choice, are perfect for any Independence Day barbecue. Mississippi mud pie Mouth-melting dark chocolate combined with delicious praline, biscuits and cream. This Mississippi mud pie makes a great, indulgent Independence Day treat. Credit: Andrew Crowley Cheat's mac and cheese Diana Henry's simple recipe for mac and cheese requires no sauce-cooking or pasta-boiling, helping you to serve the American favourite in minimal time. The best cornbread This tasty cornbread, coated in melted butter and honey, is another perfect dish for your Independence Day feast. Classic shrimp and grits Get a real taste of American cuisine with this classic Shrimp and grits recipe. This traditional Southern dish is creamy, versatile and packed with coastal flavour. The best American pancakes with banana, blueberries and maple syrup Credit: Barry Taylor Whip up a stack of these banana and blueberry pancakes, best served with a drizzle of maple syrup, to satisfy your sweet-tooth craving. Salt beef New York-style salt beef is delicious with pickles, horseradish, English mustard or piccalilli and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Prepare it yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen, following this simple and affordable recipe.
from Yahoo News - Latest News & Headlines
July 4 1776 was a prominent day in American history, as the 13 colonies successfully claimed their independence from the British Empire. In what is now known as Independence Day, the US' most beloved national holiday is celebrated annually on the Fourth of July, with millions of Americans coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of their nation. From the history behind America's independence to the modern celebrations, here is everything you need to know. What is Independence Day? Independence Day commemorates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Introduced by the Second Continental Congress, the statement outlined that the 13 American colonies were united, independent states, who were no longer subject to British monarch. Recognised annually by Americans, fireworks, parades and other patriotic celebrations are held every year on the Fourth of July to celebrate the colonies breaking free from British control. Why did the Americans want independence? The relationship between the settlers and British had been amicable, however tensions started to escalate over the imposition of British laws and taxes. To help control settlements in the western territories, King George III introduced the Royal Proclamation of 1763, preventing the colonists settling along the Appalachian Mountains. After the French and Indian War came to a close, the Quartering Act was passed in 1765, ordering the American colonies to help house the British soldiers. Also in 1765, Britain then introduced the Stamp Act to help handle war debts; this required colonists to pay a tax on printed paper including newspapers, licenses and playing cards. Colonial governor Thomas Hutchinson (1711 - 1780) escaping from local rioters after demanding Stamp Tax from them Credit: Getty Images/Hulton Archive Unsurprisingly, the colonists were not pleased. 'No taxation without representation' became the cry around 1765 after a rise in Britain's national debt forced the colonists to raise import tariffs and crack down on smuggling to raise funds. There was also a growing sense of nationalism in these largely agricultural colonies and acts of American colonial defiance began in the form of rebellions, fighting and protests. Social unrest escalated further in 1773, when patriots in Boston famously destroyed a shipment of tea by boarding three ships in Boston harbour and throwing 342 chests overboard in protest over the Tea Act. This became known as the 'Boston Tea Party'. These rebellions over taxes led to full-scale revolutionary war. What happened in the Revolutionary War? Determined to fight for their independence, Great Britain’s 13 North American Colonies fought for control over colonial affairs. They included: New Hampshire Massachusetts Connecticut Rhode Island New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia George Washington led the American forces to victory and, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Thomas Jefferson, France and Spain acted as allies, providing arms for the war. Independence was formally declared on July 2 1776; on July 4 1776, the final version of the Declaration was approved by Congress, announcing that the 13 colonies were free from British rule. While the Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Independence, most of the Congress members actually signed the document on August 2, 1776. Following the Declaration of Independence, they went on to become the United States of America – however conflict continued up until 1783. How is the day celebrated in the US? In what was a simple but powerful mark of respect to each of the colonies, 13 gunshots were fired as part of the first celebration of independence on July 4 1777, a year after the Declaration of Independence was approved. George Washington commemorated the Fourth of July the following year in 1778 by ordering a double ration of rum for his soldiers at Ross Hall, near New Jersey. Meanwhile outside the US, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams organised a celebratory dinner for Americans in Paris. The Fourth of July was officially acknowledged as a state celebration by the Massachusetts General Court in 1781, and Moravians in North Carolina, observed the day with The Psalm of Joy music programme in 1783. Nearly 100 years on from the Declaration’s approval, Independence Day was made an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and it was later established as a paid holiday by US Congress in 1938. Nowadays it's typically marked by patriotic activities - usually outside. Think parades, camping, barbecues, beers and fireworks, with as much red, white and blue as possible - all punctuated with a backing track of "Star spangled banner", "Yankee Doodle" and "God Bless America". Politicians also like to make a point of appearing at Independence Day celebrations and praising the nation's heritage, history and people. Who celebrates it apart from Americans? The Philippines and Rwanda also observe Fourth of July anniversaries for their own reasons. The US gave the Philippines independence on that day in 1946 and the Rwandan genocide ended with US help on July 4 1994. Rather more bizarrely, Denmark also celebrates the US version - it started with European expats in 1911, but now is just an "excuse for a nice day out". When is Britain's Independence Day? Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage made a case for the 23rd June to be Britain's Independence Day in 2016, because that was the date of the 2016 Brexit vote in which he said the nation "took back control" from the European Union. However, he was criticised by some who pointed out that liberation from colonial ownership was not really equivalent to Brexit. And the point that most independence anniversaries around the world celebrate breaking from the British Empire has also been well made. Best American recipes for Independence Day From sweet treats to traditional dishes, the US is famous for its cuisine, with Americans tucking into an array of classic foods every year on Independence Day. If you're celebrating the Fourth of July in the UK, here are some of our favourite American recipes to try and taste with your family and friends. Perfect homemade beef burgers Juicy beefburgers, served with roughly torn lettuce, ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced mile cheese in a bun of your choice, are perfect for any Independence Day barbecue. Mississippi mud pie Mouth-melting dark chocolate combined with delicious praline, biscuits and cream. This Mississippi mud pie makes a great, indulgent Independence Day treat. Credit: Andrew Crowley Cheat's mac and cheese Diana Henry's simple recipe for mac and cheese requires no sauce-cooking or pasta-boiling, helping you to serve the American favourite in minimal time. The best cornbread This tasty cornbread, coated in melted butter and honey, is another perfect dish for your Independence Day feast. Classic shrimp and grits Get a real taste of American cuisine with this classic Shrimp and grits recipe. This traditional Southern dish is creamy, versatile and packed with coastal flavour. The best American pancakes with banana, blueberries and maple syrup Credit: Barry Taylor Whip up a stack of these banana and blueberry pancakes, best served with a drizzle of maple syrup, to satisfy your sweet-tooth craving. Salt beef New York-style salt beef is delicious with pickles, horseradish, English mustard or piccalilli and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Prepare it yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen, following this simple and affordable recipe.
July 04, 2019 at 02:21PM via IFTTT
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Halloweekend is here! Celebrate the holiday with these 31 events, parties, haunted houses, and Memphis trunk or treats for the kids. Most of these Memphis Halloween events are this weekend – especially Saturday the 27th – but I’ve rounded up several on the 31st as well. Pumpkin patches and more events listed here. Don’t forget to check out the River Arts Festival and Mighty Lights this weekend, too. Got more? Leave them in the comments! – Monster Market at Crosstown Concourse – Thu. Oct. 25 – Wed. Oct. 31 (closed 10/29) Shop for local art with a creepy/spooky/dark/monster twist inside the Crosstown Concourse at this annual pop-up shop. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m – MidSouth Corn Maze (through Nov. 3) It’s a Memphis tradition – get lost in the corn maze at the Agricenter. It’s “haunted” (might be scary for younger kids) on weekends in October and on Nov. 3. Prices and hours vary, so check their website for details. Pro tip: lines can get quite long especially on haunted maze nights, so arrive early to avoid wait times. – Mound City Corn Maze (Fri. Oct. 26 – Sun. Oct. 28) Head over to Marion, Ark. for a non-haunted corn maze, hayride, and concessions at the Mound City Corn Maze. It’s $10 admission to the maze. Hayrides (reserve for 8 people or more) are $10. – Wicked Ways Haunted House (select days through Oct. 31) I’m hearing this haunted house – at 160 Cumberland near Wiseacre – is the most terrifying in town. Check out the website for ticket info and hours, which vary depending on the day. – Jones Orchard Shadowlands of Fear (select days through Oct. 31) Imagining yourself in cute flannel, picking apples and such? Forget it. At Jones Orchard, creatures and creeps come out to haunt the corn fields and woods at the farm during the month of October for the Fest of Fear ($15). There’s also a Hangman’s Hollow Hysteria Haunted Hayride. Say that five times fast before the zombies eat you. ($12) Buy tickets to both for $25. – HauntedWeb of Horrors (select days through Oct. 31) If their five haunted houses are anything like the scary sounds that emanate from their website, fright-seekers will love the HauntedWeb at 2665 S. Perkins Road. Open Thursdays through Sundays. Tickets are $20 for four houses or $25 for five. – Shelby Forest Trail of Terror (through Oct 31) This haunted trail through the woods is legit scary and not for the kids! $10 cover and don’t forget to print your ticket – there’s no cell phone service out there (or buy tickets in cash at the gate). – Halloween at Hogwarts at The Abbey (Fri. Oct. 26) The Mystic Krewe of Pegasus hosts their fourth annual Halloween bash; this year it’s Harry Potter themed. Entertainment, open bar, food, and a costume contest. Benefits Tennessee Equality Project. $30. 21 and up. – Haunted Trolley Night in South Main (Fri. Oct. 26) It’s your favorite monthly Trolley Night – only with a spooky twist! Shops and businesses host open houses, some with free refreshments. The Vault will host a costume party. All ages, free. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. though some festivities might go longer. – Addams Family on Adams Avenue (Fri. Oct. 26) Watch the classic spooky movie on the lawn of the Mallory-Neely House. Open house in the mansion at 5:30 p.m. and movie at 7 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are ok for the outdoors movie. All ages, free. – Lafeyette’s Fright Nite (Fri. Oct. 26) A Halloween bash at Lafayette’s in Overton with music, costume contest, and drink specials. Doors at 9 p.m. Ages and cover charge unclear. – Zoo Boo (Fri. Oct 26 – Sun. Oct. 28, also Oct. 31) Family-friendly fun at the Zoo – hayrides, straw maze, magic show, and candy. All ages. $13 for non-members. 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. – Lizzie The Musical at Theatreworks (Fri. Oct. 26 through Sun. Oct. 28.) I’ve heard high praise for this Lizzie-Borden based rock musical at Theatreworks in Overton Square, presented by New Moon Theatre Company. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. $25. For adults. – Dracula at Theatre Memphis (Fri. Oct. 26 through Sun. Oct. 28) Adapted from Bram Stoker’s novel, this Theatre Memphis version of Dracula is on at the Lohrey Stage in October. Tickets are $25. – Soul of the City Tour at Elmwood – (Sat. Oct. 27) Tour guides in costumes lead you through a tour of Memphis’ most historic and beautifully haunting cemetery. At the time of this post, there were only a few spaces left for Saturday night (Oct. 27). $20. Adults only. – Flick or Treat Movie Night at the Garden (Sat. Oct. 27) Memphis Botanic hosts a double feature with “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” at 7:15 p.m. and “Tim Burton’s The Corpse Bride” at 7:45 p.m. Kettle corn, food trucks, photo pops, booze available for sale. Tickets are $10 for non-members. All ages. – Hannyaween feat. HANNYA CHA0$ at The New Daisy (Sat. Oct. 27) Halloween night live music bash at The New Daisy on Beale. Doors at 8 p.m. $15 adv./$20 on the day of the show. Ages unclear. – Germantown Fall Fest at Bobby Lanier Farm Park (Sat. Oct. 27) Celebrate with haunted trails, food trucks, guided tours of Oaklawn Garden, bounce hours, games, and more. Fairy Tale Trail 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. and Trail of Terror 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. $4 per person for the trails, some activities are a few bucks. All ages. – 2nd Baptist Pumpkin Festival (Oct. 27) Free event for kids with trunk-or-treat, games, snacks, inflatables, and more. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Haunted Happenings at Woodruff-Fontaine (Oct. 27) It’s the 10th anniversary of Haunted Happenings – learn about the people who lived in this Victorian Mansion, have your fortune told, and enjoy music, food trucks, dancing, and more. Feel free to wear costumes. – Spaceface Halloween at Railgarten (Oct. 27) If you want to feel like you’re floating in an ocean of colors and sounds, mark your calendars for Spaceface’s annual Halloween hometown show. Their live shows include jam moments, rock guitar solos, and a full on psychedelic experience. 7 p.m. 21 and up. free. – Dia de los Muertos Parade & Festival (Oct. 27) No, it’s NOT Halloween, but the Day of the Dead Parade & Festival hosted by the Brooks Museum is going on the list due to timing. The parade goes from Overton Square to the Brooks starting at 11 a.m., and the party starts at noon. – Booffalo Bash at Shelby Farms (Oct. 27) Family-friendly night of trunk-or-treats, crafts, inflatables, hikes, and food trucks. It’s $10 per car for parking and $1 per slide ride; everything else is free. – Scary Sexy Freaky Frightening Halloween Party at Memphis Sounds Lounge (Sat. Oct. 27) Memphis Sounds on Mud Island will host live music, dance party, and costume contest. Admission is $15, 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. 21 and up. – Black October at the Slim House (Wed. Oct. 31) The Collective hosts the 4th annual Black October Halloween Party with DJs, bonfire, drink specials, and a costume contest. Doors at 9:30 p.m. $5 with costume, $10 without. – Here For The Boos Party at Ghost River (Wed. Oct. 31) Wear costumes to Ghost River (no masks) and enjoy food trucks, Halloween-themed trivia, flight night beer specials, costume contest, and live music. 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. Free to attend. All ages, 21 to drink. – Metal Museum Halloween Pop-Up at Memphis Rox (Wed. Oct. 31) The Metal Museum takes their mobile forge to Memphis Rox climbing gym in Soulsville from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Watch the foundry team create metal castings and then make your own metal crafts. All ages, free. – Halloween Party at Dru’s Place (Wed. Oct. 31) Expect karaoke, drag show, dancing, Halloween-themed apps and beverages included in cover charge. You better wear a costume! Halloween movies all day. $10 cover starting at 7 p.m. – midnight. 21 and up. – Hell House at Mollie Fontaine (Wed. Oct. 31) The annual Mollie’s Halloween dance party is back again. Doors open at 8 p.m. with DJs and rages until 3 a.m. Costumes encouraged, but optional. 21 and up, $10 cover. – Halloween Bash at Crosstown Brewing (Wed. Oct. 31) Food truck, live music, costume contest, games, and of course, beer. – Plus, Trunk or Treats on Wed. Oct. 31: – Bass Pro Pyramid – Crosstown Concourse – Snowden Grove Park – Wolfchase Galleria Mall – Oak Court Mall – Southland Mall – Kroc Center Got more? Leave them in the comments! Are you a home owner in Memphis, with a broken garage door? Call ASAP garage door today at 901-461-0385 or checkout https://ift.tt/1B5z3Pc
http://ilovememphisblog.com/2018/10/memphis-halloween-events-31-spooky-scary-and-fun-things-to-do/
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ೄྀ࿐ ˊˎ- A Letter from Toa ೄྀ࿐ ˊˎ-
Congratulations, @whattheflip2468 ! You have been selected to receive a confession letter as part of our 4th Anniversary Celebration Draw for the English version of the game.
Please enjoy!
.·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·.
Greetings,
I find myself in an unfamiliar position—one that defies my usual adherence to rules and structure. You know me as someone who values order above all else, but I must set aside my reservations to share what has been weighing on my heart.
From the moment we first met, I sensed a connection that I cannot ignore. Your presence brings a light to my otherwise rigid world, and I am drawn to you in ways I cannot fully articulate. While I often prefer to maintain a distance, your laughter and determination have captured my attention in ways I never anticipated.
I am aware that my brusque nature can be off-putting, but I assure you that beneath this exterior lies a person who values genuine connection. My skills in reading people have led me to understand that you possess a strength and kindness that resonate deeply with me. It is rare for me to allow myself to feel so openly, but with you, it seems almost inevitable.
I know that my position comes with expectations and obligations, but I am willing to navigate the complexities of our circumstances if it means exploring what lies between us. I wish to understand you better, to support you, and perhaps to find joy in shared moments—something I have seldom allowed myself to pursue.
Please consider this letter an invitation. I am ready to step beyond my usual boundaries, if you are willing to join me.
Yours sincerely,
Toa Qelsum
#court of darkness#court of darkness voltage#ask court of darkness#incorrect court of darkness#codvn#ask the princes#toa is down bad#ask toa qelsum#toa qelsum#court of darkness 4th anniversary celebration#court of darkness 4th anniversary#4th anniversary celebration#celebration
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༉‧₊˚. A Letter from Guy ༉‧₊˚.
Congratulations, @darlingzelda ! You have been selected to receive a confession letter as part of our 4th Anniversary Celebration Draw for the English version of the game.
Please enjoy!
.·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·.
Greetings.
If you are reading this, it means I have finally found a way to express this to you. I never thought it possible that I could ever cherish a woman in this way, but here we are.
I know I’ve come across as cold and dismissive, a façade I’ve carefully crafted. My world has always been shrouded in shadows and ambition, something constructed from the way I was raised in Avari. But what I didn’t expect was for you to step into my life and pierce through that darkness. Your light is… disarming.
You deserve honesty, and I owe you that much. I’ve tried to keep my distance, thinking it would be easier to leave my guard up, but every time I see you, it becomes increasingly impossible to ignore the feelings that have taken root. You’ve managed to break through my walls in ways I didn’t think possible.
I find myself captivated by your kindness, your laughter—each moment shared with you feels like a reprieve from my own burdens. The more I get to know you, the more I realize how much I admire your strength and spirit. I did not realize how much these feelings would affect my wellbeing.
I know this may come as a shock, and you might find it hard to reconcile this confession with the person you see. I have never been proficient at showing vulnerability; it’s a weakness I’ve always been taught to suppress. But with you, I feel a longing to be more than just the version of myself I was taught to be —a desire to share the truth of who I am beneath the armor I wear.
I don’t expect you to feel the same way, nor do I want to pressure you. I just needed to be honest, to let you know that you have become someone incredibly important to me. Whatever your response, know that I will respect it. I value our connection, even if it remains a formality.
I await your response.
Yours,
Guy Avari
#court of darkness#court of darkness voltage#ask court of darkness#incorrect court of darkness#codvn#ask the princes#guy avari#avari#ask guy avari#guy monus#court of darkness 4th anniversary celebration#court of darkness 4th anniversary#4th anniversary celebration
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˚ ༘♡ ⋆。˚ A Letter from Roy ˚ ༘♡ ⋆。˚
Congratulations, @colourless-hydrangeas ! You have been selected to receive a confession letter as part of our 4th Anniversary Celebration Draw for the English version of the game.
Please enjoy!
.·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·.
Dearest,
I find myself in a position that feels both exhilarating and terrifying, and I can no longer keep these feelings to myself. The facade I wear as Prince Roy Invidia is one I have crafted with great care, but beneath it lies a heart that yearns for genuine connection—something I have long believed to be unattainable.
Every moment I spend in your presence fills me with a warmth I have seldom felt. Your laughter dances through the air like a melody, and your kindness shines brighter than any jewel in the court. You possess a sincerity that draws me in, and I am captivated by the essence of who you are.
Yet, as I write this, I am acutely aware of the expectations that weigh upon me. I have spent years perfecting the art of being the ideal prince, but in doing so, I fear I have obscured the truth of my own heart. I worry that you see only the polished exterior, the prince who is gracious and poised, while the deeper layers of my being remain hidden in the shadows.
I am not perfect, nor do I wish to be. I long for someone who can see beyond the crown, someone who can accept the imperfections that make me human. I cherish the moments we share, the conversations that reveal glimpses of our true selves. With you, I feel a desire to be authentic, to let down my guard and share the parts of me that are often buried beneath expectation.
So, it is with both vulnerability and hope that I confess my feelings to you. I have fallen in love with you—not with the idea of a perfect romance, but with the real connection we could cultivate together. I hope this letter finds you well and that you will consider what I have shared.
Regardless of your response, I want you to know how deeply you are appreciated.
Yours forever,
Roy Invidia
#court of darkness#court of darkness voltage#ask court of darkness#incorrect court of darkness#codvn#ask the princes#ask roy invidia#prince roy#roy invidia#court of darkness 4th anniversary celebration#court of darkness 4th anniversary#4th anniversary celebration#celebration draw
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༉‧₊˚. 4th Anniversary Announcement ༉‧₊˚.
As a celebration of Court of Darkness' 4th anniversary in the English version of the game, our team will be randomly selecting individuals who follow this channel to receive a special, personalized confession love letter from one of the characters.
Your account will be tagged in the post so you will receive a notification if you are selected.
Please notify us if you do not wish to participate in this special draw.
Thank you!
#court of darkness#court of darkness voltage#ask court of darkness#incorrect court of darkness#codvn#ask the princes#guy avari#roy invidia#lynt akedia#fenn luxure#toa qelsum#love letters#Court of Darkness 4th anniversary#celebration post#special draw#lou cod
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July 4th 2019: How a tax on playing cards and a thwarted tea shipment led to American Independence Day
July 4 1776 was a prominent day in American history, as the 13 colonies successfully claimed their independence from the British Empire. In what is now known as Independence Day, the US' most beloved national holiday is celebrated annually on the Fourth of July, with millions of Americans coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of their nation. From the history behind America's independence to the modern celebrations, here is everything you need to know. What is Independence Day? Independence Day commemorates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Introduced by the Second Continental Congress, the statement outlined that the 13 American colonies were united, independent states, who were no longer subject to British monarch. Recognised annually by Americans, fireworks, parades and other patriotic celebrations are held every year on the Fourth of July to celebrate the colonies breaking free from British control. Why did the Americans want independence? The relationship between the settlers and British had been amicable, however tensions started to escalate over the imposition of British laws and taxes. To help control settlements in the western territories, King George III introduced the Royal Proclamation of 1763, preventing the colonists settling along the Appalachian Mountains. After the French and Indian War came to a close, the Quartering Act was passed in 1765, ordering the American colonies to help house the British soldiers. Also in 1765, Britain then introduced the Stamp Act to help handle war debts; this required colonists to pay a tax on printed paper including newspapers, licenses and playing cards. Colonial governor Thomas Hutchinson (1711 - 1780) escaping from local rioters after demanding Stamp Tax from them Credit: Getty Images/Hulton Archive Unsurprisingly, the colonists were not pleased. 'No taxation without representation' became the cry around 1765 after a rise in Britain's national debt forced the colonists to raise import tariffs and crack down on smuggling to raise funds. There was also a growing sense of nationalism in these largely agricultural colonies and acts of American colonial defiance began in the form of rebellions, fighting and protests. Social unrest escalated further in 1773, when patriots in Boston famously destroyed a shipment of tea by boarding three ships in Boston harbour and throwing 342 chests overboard in protest over the Tea Act. This became known as the 'Boston Tea Party'. These rebellions over taxes led to full-scale revolutionary war. What happened in the Revolutionary War? Determined to fight for their independence, Great Britain’s 13 North American Colonies fought for control over colonial affairs. They included: New Hampshire Massachusetts Connecticut Rhode Island New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia George Washington led the American forces to victory and, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Thomas Jefferson, France and Spain acted as allies, providing arms for the war. Independence was formally declared on July 2 1776; on July 4 1776, the final version of the Declaration was approved by Congress, announcing that the 13 colonies were free from British rule. While the Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Independence, most of the Congress members actually signed the document on August 2, 1776. Following the Declaration of Independence, they went on to become the United States of America – however conflict continued up until 1783. How is the day celebrated in the US? In what was a simple but powerful mark of respect to each of the colonies, 13 gunshots were fired as part of the first celebration of independence on July 4 1777, a year after the Declaration of Independence was approved. George Washington commemorated the Fourth of July the following year in 1778 by ordering a double ration of rum for his soldiers at Ross Hall, near New Jersey. Meanwhile outside the US, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams organised a celebratory dinner for Americans in Paris. The Fourth of July was officially acknowledged as a state celebration by the Massachusetts General Court in 1781, and Moravians in North Carolina, observed the day with The Psalm of Joy music programme in 1783. Nearly 100 years on from the Declaration’s approval, Independence Day was made an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and it was later established as a paid holiday by US Congress in 1938. Nowadays it's typically marked by patriotic activities - usually outside. Think parades, camping, barbecues, beers and fireworks, with as much red, white and blue as possible - all punctuated with a backing track of "Star spangled banner", "Yankee Doodle" and "God Bless America". Politicians also like to make a point of appearing at Independence Day celebrations and praising the nation's heritage, history and people. Who celebrates it apart from Americans? The Philippines and Rwanda also observe Fourth of July anniversaries for their own reasons. The US gave the Philippines independence on that day in 1946 and the Rwandan genocide ended with US help on July 4 1994. Rather more bizarrely, Denmark also celebrates the US version - it started with European expats in 1911, but now is just an "excuse for a nice day out". When is Britain's Independence Day? Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage made a case for the 23rd June to be Britain's Independence Day in 2016, because that was the date of the 2016 Brexit vote in which he said the nation "took back control" from the European Union. However, he was criticised by some who pointed out that liberation from colonial ownership was not really equivalent to Brexit. And the point that most independence anniversaries around the world celebrate breaking from the British Empire has also been well made. Best American recipes for Independence Day From sweet treats to traditional dishes, the US is famous for its cuisine, with Americans tucking into an array of classic foods every year on Independence Day. If you're celebrating the Fourth of July in the UK, here are some of our favourite American recipes to try and taste with your family and friends. Perfect homemade beef burgers Juicy beefburgers, served with roughly torn lettuce, ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced mile cheese in a bun of your choice, are perfect for any Independence Day barbecue. Mississippi mud pie Mouth-melting dark chocolate combined with delicious praline, biscuits and cream. This Mississippi mud pie makes a great, indulgent Independence Day treat. Credit: Andrew Crowley Cheat's mac and cheese Diana Henry's simple recipe for mac and cheese requires no sauce-cooking or pasta-boiling, helping you to serve the American favourite in minimal time. The best cornbread This tasty cornbread, coated in melted butter and honey, is another perfect dish for your Independence Day feast. Classic shrimp and grits Get a real taste of American cuisine with this classic Shrimp and grits recipe. This traditional Southern dish is creamy, versatile and packed with coastal flavour. The best American pancakes with banana, blueberries and maple syrup Credit: Barry Taylor Whip up a stack of these banana and blueberry pancakes, best served with a drizzle of maple syrup, to satisfy your sweet-tooth craving. Salt beef New York-style salt beef is delicious with pickles, horseradish, English mustard or piccalilli and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Prepare it yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen, following this simple and affordable recipe.
from Yahoo News - Latest News & Headlines
July 4 1776 was a prominent day in American history, as the 13 colonies successfully claimed their independence from the British Empire. In what is now known as Independence Day, the US' most beloved national holiday is celebrated annually on the Fourth of July, with millions of Americans coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of their nation. From the history behind America's independence to the modern celebrations, here is everything you need to know. What is Independence Day? Independence Day commemorates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Introduced by the Second Continental Congress, the statement outlined that the 13 American colonies were united, independent states, who were no longer subject to British monarch. Recognised annually by Americans, fireworks, parades and other patriotic celebrations are held every year on the Fourth of July to celebrate the colonies breaking free from British control. Why did the Americans want independence? The relationship between the settlers and British had been amicable, however tensions started to escalate over the imposition of British laws and taxes. To help control settlements in the western territories, King George III introduced the Royal Proclamation of 1763, preventing the colonists settling along the Appalachian Mountains. After the French and Indian War came to a close, the Quartering Act was passed in 1765, ordering the American colonies to help house the British soldiers. Also in 1765, Britain then introduced the Stamp Act to help handle war debts; this required colonists to pay a tax on printed paper including newspapers, licenses and playing cards. Colonial governor Thomas Hutchinson (1711 - 1780) escaping from local rioters after demanding Stamp Tax from them Credit: Getty Images/Hulton Archive Unsurprisingly, the colonists were not pleased. 'No taxation without representation' became the cry around 1765 after a rise in Britain's national debt forced the colonists to raise import tariffs and crack down on smuggling to raise funds. There was also a growing sense of nationalism in these largely agricultural colonies and acts of American colonial defiance began in the form of rebellions, fighting and protests. Social unrest escalated further in 1773, when patriots in Boston famously destroyed a shipment of tea by boarding three ships in Boston harbour and throwing 342 chests overboard in protest over the Tea Act. This became known as the 'Boston Tea Party'. These rebellions over taxes led to full-scale revolutionary war. What happened in the Revolutionary War? Determined to fight for their independence, Great Britain’s 13 North American Colonies fought for control over colonial affairs. They included: New Hampshire Massachusetts Connecticut Rhode Island New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia George Washington led the American forces to victory and, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Thomas Jefferson, France and Spain acted as allies, providing arms for the war. Independence was formally declared on July 2 1776; on July 4 1776, the final version of the Declaration was approved by Congress, announcing that the 13 colonies were free from British rule. While the Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Independence, most of the Congress members actually signed the document on August 2, 1776. Following the Declaration of Independence, they went on to become the United States of America – however conflict continued up until 1783. How is the day celebrated in the US? In what was a simple but powerful mark of respect to each of the colonies, 13 gunshots were fired as part of the first celebration of independence on July 4 1777, a year after the Declaration of Independence was approved. George Washington commemorated the Fourth of July the following year in 1778 by ordering a double ration of rum for his soldiers at Ross Hall, near New Jersey. Meanwhile outside the US, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams organised a celebratory dinner for Americans in Paris. The Fourth of July was officially acknowledged as a state celebration by the Massachusetts General Court in 1781, and Moravians in North Carolina, observed the day with The Psalm of Joy music programme in 1783. Nearly 100 years on from the Declaration’s approval, Independence Day was made an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and it was later established as a paid holiday by US Congress in 1938. Nowadays it's typically marked by patriotic activities - usually outside. Think parades, camping, barbecues, beers and fireworks, with as much red, white and blue as possible - all punctuated with a backing track of "Star spangled banner", "Yankee Doodle" and "God Bless America". Politicians also like to make a point of appearing at Independence Day celebrations and praising the nation's heritage, history and people. Who celebrates it apart from Americans? The Philippines and Rwanda also observe Fourth of July anniversaries for their own reasons. The US gave the Philippines independence on that day in 1946 and the Rwandan genocide ended with US help on July 4 1994. Rather more bizarrely, Denmark also celebrates the US version - it started with European expats in 1911, but now is just an "excuse for a nice day out". When is Britain's Independence Day? Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage made a case for the 23rd June to be Britain's Independence Day in 2016, because that was the date of the 2016 Brexit vote in which he said the nation "took back control" from the European Union. However, he was criticised by some who pointed out that liberation from colonial ownership was not really equivalent to Brexit. And the point that most independence anniversaries around the world celebrate breaking from the British Empire has also been well made. Best American recipes for Independence Day From sweet treats to traditional dishes, the US is famous for its cuisine, with Americans tucking into an array of classic foods every year on Independence Day. If you're celebrating the Fourth of July in the UK, here are some of our favourite American recipes to try and taste with your family and friends. Perfect homemade beef burgers Juicy beefburgers, served with roughly torn lettuce, ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced mile cheese in a bun of your choice, are perfect for any Independence Day barbecue. Mississippi mud pie Mouth-melting dark chocolate combined with delicious praline, biscuits and cream. This Mississippi mud pie makes a great, indulgent Independence Day treat. Credit: Andrew Crowley Cheat's mac and cheese Diana Henry's simple recipe for mac and cheese requires no sauce-cooking or pasta-boiling, helping you to serve the American favourite in minimal time. The best cornbread This tasty cornbread, coated in melted butter and honey, is another perfect dish for your Independence Day feast. Classic shrimp and grits Get a real taste of American cuisine with this classic Shrimp and grits recipe. This traditional Southern dish is creamy, versatile and packed with coastal flavour. The best American pancakes with banana, blueberries and maple syrup Credit: Barry Taylor Whip up a stack of these banana and blueberry pancakes, best served with a drizzle of maple syrup, to satisfy your sweet-tooth craving. Salt beef New York-style salt beef is delicious with pickles, horseradish, English mustard or piccalilli and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Prepare it yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen, following this simple and affordable recipe.
July 04, 2019 at 08:24AM via IFTTT
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July 4th 2019: How a tax on playing cards and a thwarted tea shipment led to American Independence Day
July 4 1776 was a prominent day in American history, as the 13 colonies successfully claimed their independence from the British Empire. In what is now known as Independence Day, the US' most beloved national holiday is celebrated annually on the Fourth of July, with millions of Americans coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of their nation. From the history behind America's independence to the modern celebrations, here is everything you need to know. What is Independence Day? Independence Day commemorates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Introduced by the Second Continental Congress, the statement outlined that the 13 American colonies were united, independent states, who were no longer subject to British monarch. Recognised annually by Americans, fireworks, parades and other patriotic celebrations are held every year on the Fourth of July to celebrate the colonies breaking free from British control. Why did the Americans want independence? The relationship between the settlers and British had been amicable, however tensions started to escalate over the imposition of British laws and taxes. To help control settlements in the western territories, King George III introduced the Royal Proclamation of 1763, preventing the colonists settling along the Appalachian Mountains. After the French and Indian War came to a close, the Quartering Act was passed in 1765, ordering the American colonies to help house the British soldiers. Also in 1765, Britain then introduced the Stamp Act to help handle war debts; this required colonists to pay a tax on printed paper including newspapers, licenses and playing cards. Colonial governor Thomas Hutchinson (1711 - 1780) escaping from local rioters after demanding Stamp Tax from them Credit: Getty Images/Hulton Archive Unsurprisingly, the colonists were not pleased. 'No taxation without representation' became the cry around 1765 after a rise in Britain's national debt forced the colonists to raise import tariffs and crack down on smuggling to raise funds. There was also a growing sense of nationalism in these largely agricultural colonies and acts of American colonial defiance began in the form of rebellions, fighting and protests. Social unrest escalated further in 1773, when patriots in Boston famously destroyed a shipment of tea by boarding three ships in Boston harbour and throwing 342 chests overboard in protest over the Tea Act. This became known as the 'Boston Tea Party'. These rebellions over taxes led to full-scale revolutionary war. What happened in the Revolutionary War? Determined to fight for their independence, Great Britain’s 13 North American Colonies fought for control over colonial affairs. They included: New Hampshire Massachusetts Connecticut Rhode Island New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia George Washington led the American forces to victory and, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Thomas Jefferson, France and Spain acted as allies, providing arms for the war. Independence was formally declared on July 2 1776; on July 4 1776, the final version of the Declaration was approved by Congress, announcing that the 13 colonies were free from British rule. While the Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Independence, most of the Congress members actually signed the document on August 2, 1776. Following the Declaration of Independence, they went on to become the United States of America – however conflict continued up until 1783. How is the day celebrated in the US? In what was a simple but powerful mark of respect to each of the colonies, 13 gunshots were fired as part of the first celebration of independence on July 4 1777, a year after the Declaration of Independence was approved. George Washington commemorated the Fourth of July the following year in 1778 by ordering a double ration of rum for his soldiers at Ross Hall, near New Jersey. Meanwhile outside the US, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams organised a celebratory dinner for Americans in Paris. The Fourth of July was officially acknowledged as a state celebration by the Massachusetts General Court in 1781, and Moravians in North Carolina, observed the day with The Psalm of Joy music programme in 1783. Nearly 100 years on from the Declaration’s approval, Independence Day was made an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and it was later established as a paid holiday by US Congress in 1938. Nowadays it's typically marked by patriotic activities - usually outside. Think parades, camping, barbecues, beers and fireworks, with as much red, white and blue as possible - all punctuated with a backing track of "Star spangled banner", "Yankee Doodle" and "God Bless America". Politicians also like to make a point of appearing at Independence Day celebrations and praising the nation's heritage, history and people. Who celebrates it apart from Americans? The Philippines and Rwanda also observe Fourth of July anniversaries for their own reasons. The US gave the Philippines independence on that day in 1946 and the Rwandan genocide ended with US help on July 4 1994. Rather more bizarrely, Denmark also celebrates the US version - it started with European expats in 1911, but now is just an "excuse for a nice day out". When is Britain's Independence Day? Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage made a case for the 23rd June to be Britain's Independence Day in 2016, because that was the date of the 2016 Brexit vote in which he said the nation "took back control" from the European Union. However, he was criticised by some who pointed out that liberation from colonial ownership was not really equivalent to Brexit. And the point that most independence anniversaries around the world celebrate breaking from the British Empire has also been well made. Best American recipes for Independence Day From sweet treats to traditional dishes, the US is famous for its cuisine, with Americans tucking into an array of classic foods every year on Independence Day. If you're celebrating the Fourth of July in the UK, here are some of our favourite American recipes to try and taste with your family and friends. Perfect homemade beef burgers Juicy beefburgers, served with roughly torn lettuce, ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced mile cheese in a bun of your choice, are perfect for any Independence Day barbecue. Mississippi mud pie Mouth-melting dark chocolate combined with delicious praline, biscuits and cream. This Mississippi mud pie makes a great, indulgent Independence Day treat. Credit: Andrew Crowley Cheat's mac and cheese Diana Henry's simple recipe for mac and cheese requires no sauce-cooking or pasta-boiling, helping you to serve the American favourite in minimal time. The best cornbread This tasty cornbread, coated in melted butter and honey, is another perfect dish for your Independence Day feast. Classic shrimp and grits Get a real taste of American cuisine with this classic Shrimp and grits recipe. This traditional Southern dish is creamy, versatile and packed with coastal flavour. The best American pancakes with banana, blueberries and maple syrup Credit: Barry Taylor Whip up a stack of these banana and blueberry pancakes, best served with a drizzle of maple syrup, to satisfy your sweet-tooth craving. Salt beef New York-style salt beef is delicious with pickles, horseradish, English mustard or piccalilli and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Prepare it yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen, following this simple and affordable recipe.
from Yahoo News - Latest News & Headlines
July 4 1776 was a prominent day in American history, as the 13 colonies successfully claimed their independence from the British Empire. In what is now known as Independence Day, the US' most beloved national holiday is celebrated annually on the Fourth of July, with millions of Americans coming together to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of their nation. From the history behind America's independence to the modern celebrations, here is everything you need to know. What is Independence Day? Independence Day commemorates the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Introduced by the Second Continental Congress, the statement outlined that the 13 American colonies were united, independent states, who were no longer subject to British monarch. Recognised annually by Americans, fireworks, parades and other patriotic celebrations are held every year on the Fourth of July to celebrate the colonies breaking free from British control. Why did the Americans want independence? The relationship between the settlers and British had been amicable, however tensions started to escalate over the imposition of British laws and taxes. To help control settlements in the western territories, King George III introduced the Royal Proclamation of 1763, preventing the colonists settling along the Appalachian Mountains. After the French and Indian War came to a close, the Quartering Act was passed in 1765, ordering the American colonies to help house the British soldiers. Also in 1765, Britain then introduced the Stamp Act to help handle war debts; this required colonists to pay a tax on printed paper including newspapers, licenses and playing cards. Colonial governor Thomas Hutchinson (1711 - 1780) escaping from local rioters after demanding Stamp Tax from them Credit: Getty Images/Hulton Archive Unsurprisingly, the colonists were not pleased. 'No taxation without representation' became the cry around 1765 after a rise in Britain's national debt forced the colonists to raise import tariffs and crack down on smuggling to raise funds. There was also a growing sense of nationalism in these largely agricultural colonies and acts of American colonial defiance began in the form of rebellions, fighting and protests. Social unrest escalated further in 1773, when patriots in Boston famously destroyed a shipment of tea by boarding three ships in Boston harbour and throwing 342 chests overboard in protest over the Tea Act. This became known as the 'Boston Tea Party'. These rebellions over taxes led to full-scale revolutionary war. What happened in the Revolutionary War? Determined to fight for their independence, Great Britain’s 13 North American Colonies fought for control over colonial affairs. They included: New Hampshire Massachusetts Connecticut Rhode Island New York New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia North Carolina South Carolina Georgia George Washington led the American forces to victory and, thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Thomas Jefferson, France and Spain acted as allies, providing arms for the war. Independence was formally declared on July 2 1776; on July 4 1776, the final version of the Declaration was approved by Congress, announcing that the 13 colonies were free from British rule. While the Fourth of July marks the adoption of the Declaration of the Independence, most of the Congress members actually signed the document on August 2, 1776. Following the Declaration of Independence, they went on to become the United States of America – however conflict continued up until 1783. How is the day celebrated in the US? In what was a simple but powerful mark of respect to each of the colonies, 13 gunshots were fired as part of the first celebration of independence on July 4 1777, a year after the Declaration of Independence was approved. George Washington commemorated the Fourth of July the following year in 1778 by ordering a double ration of rum for his soldiers at Ross Hall, near New Jersey. Meanwhile outside the US, Benjamin Franklin and John Adams organised a celebratory dinner for Americans in Paris. The Fourth of July was officially acknowledged as a state celebration by the Massachusetts General Court in 1781, and Moravians in North Carolina, observed the day with The Psalm of Joy music programme in 1783. Nearly 100 years on from the Declaration’s approval, Independence Day was made an unpaid holiday for federal employees in 1870, and it was later established as a paid holiday by US Congress in 1938. Nowadays it's typically marked by patriotic activities - usually outside. Think parades, camping, barbecues, beers and fireworks, with as much red, white and blue as possible - all punctuated with a backing track of "Star spangled banner", "Yankee Doodle" and "God Bless America". Politicians also like to make a point of appearing at Independence Day celebrations and praising the nation's heritage, history and people. Who celebrates it apart from Americans? The Philippines and Rwanda also observe Fourth of July anniversaries for their own reasons. The US gave the Philippines independence on that day in 1946 and the Rwandan genocide ended with US help on July 4 1994. Rather more bizarrely, Denmark also celebrates the US version - it started with European expats in 1911, but now is just an "excuse for a nice day out". When is Britain's Independence Day? Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage made a case for the 23rd June to be Britain's Independence Day in 2016, because that was the date of the 2016 Brexit vote in which he said the nation "took back control" from the European Union. However, he was criticised by some who pointed out that liberation from colonial ownership was not really equivalent to Brexit. And the point that most independence anniversaries around the world celebrate breaking from the British Empire has also been well made. Best American recipes for Independence Day From sweet treats to traditional dishes, the US is famous for its cuisine, with Americans tucking into an array of classic foods every year on Independence Day. If you're celebrating the Fourth of July in the UK, here are some of our favourite American recipes to try and taste with your family and friends. Perfect homemade beef burgers Juicy beefburgers, served with roughly torn lettuce, ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced mile cheese in a bun of your choice, are perfect for any Independence Day barbecue. Mississippi mud pie Mouth-melting dark chocolate combined with delicious praline, biscuits and cream. This Mississippi mud pie makes a great, indulgent Independence Day treat. Credit: Andrew Crowley Cheat's mac and cheese Diana Henry's simple recipe for mac and cheese requires no sauce-cooking or pasta-boiling, helping you to serve the American favourite in minimal time. The best cornbread This tasty cornbread, coated in melted butter and honey, is another perfect dish for your Independence Day feast. Classic shrimp and grits Get a real taste of American cuisine with this classic Shrimp and grits recipe. This traditional Southern dish is creamy, versatile and packed with coastal flavour. The best American pancakes with banana, blueberries and maple syrup Credit: Barry Taylor Whip up a stack of these banana and blueberry pancakes, best served with a drizzle of maple syrup, to satisfy your sweet-tooth craving. Salt beef New York-style salt beef is delicious with pickles, horseradish, English mustard or piccalilli and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Prepare it yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen, following this simple and affordable recipe.
July 03, 2019 at 10:04AM via IFTTT
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