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July 4th marks the founding of the United States, and for many the day would not be complete without the evening fireworks celebration. If you've ever wondered about the origins of this custom, fireworks appear to have been associated with this day since the founding of the republic. John Adams wrote in a letter to his wife on July 3, 1776, about the declaration: "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 Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations [fireworks] from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."1
First invented in ancient China, fireworks made it to Europe in the 13th century and were later brought to the Americas by the European settlers.2 Although fireworks go off on various celebratory occasions, like the New Year's Eve, sports events, and festivals, they are mainly associated with celebrating the birth of the nation. Over time they have become a quite elaborate and mesmerizing show not to miss. Aside from the big fireworks shows, many Americans love putting up their own local fireworks shows. Almost all states allow "consumer" fireworks but regulations vary from state to state one what is allowed, so it is advised to find out what is legal in your state.
Below are listed selected sources for locating information on the pyrotechnics or fireworks industry. If you have any further questions, please Ask A Librarian.
The following titles link to fuller bibliographic information in the Library of Congress Online Catalog. Links to digital content are provided when available.
Chemistry of Pyrotechnics: Basic Principles and Theory by 
International Fireworks Trade Directory by 
Managing Fireworks Displays by 
Zambelli, the first family of fireworks: a story of global success by The following resources have been created or digitized by the Library of Congress and can be used to find out more about the people and events of the day.
Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers
Digital Image CollectionsThese freely available online resources provide additional information on the topic.
Additional works on this topic in the Library of Congress may be identified by searching the Library of Congress Online Catalog under appropriate Library of Congress subject headings. Choose the topics you wish to search from the following list of subject headings to link directly to the Catalog and automatically execute a search for the subject selected. Please be aware that during periods of heavy use you may encounter delays in accessing the catalog. For assistance in locating other subject headings that may relate to this subject, please consult a reference librarian.
