July 4, also known as Independence Day, marks the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the 13 North American colonies officially separated from Great Britain. As the Fourth of July draws nearer, here's a brief rundown of what happened that day in 1776, approximately 249 years ago.

While demonstrations from Washington to Los Angeles were largely festive, with food trucks and live music, protesters were determined to speak for their cause.

The Fourth of July is a celebration of all things American with parades, backyard barbecues and the night sky lit up with fireworks.