Independence Days Bonanza

Independence Days:
The late 18th Century brought about two famous and influential (and European) revolutions. Both were influenced by the Enlightenment and the ideas of freedom, democracy, and liberty. The American Revolution was sparked by the want to break away from the oppressive and ineffective hand of British rule. Today, we celebrate its culmination on the 4th of July, also known as Independence Day. Washington D.C., the nation's capitol, gives a stunning visual performance that commemorates the beginning of the country. The National Mall starts off with a celebratory concert played by the National Symphony Orchestra and showcasing other performers and then lights up the night with a rousing round of fireworks. It's a crowded affair, so some watchers look for other vantage points to view the spectacle. I got a pretty good view from the steps of the Library of Congress.

The other independence day celebration hails from France. The French Revolution, starting in 1789, began with anger over unequal social classes, difficult agricultural and economic years, and growing intellectual Enlightenment ideals. The storming of the Bastille, a shoddy prison and armory, unleashed the frustration of the underclass French which ended in a bloody upheaval of the monarchy and ironically transformed the nation into an empire under the leadership of Napoleon Bonaparte I. The Bastille Day celebrations in DC were decidedly less noticeable on July 14th, but some festivities could be found at the Hillwood Estate, Museum, and Gardens. The mansion was the home of Marjorie Post, who's fortune allowed her to accumulate beautiful and intricate items reflecting 17th Century French and Imperial Russian culture. The festivities at the estate included mimes, courtesans, food, dance, and music performances.

The period of independence that I found myself celebrating brings to mind the thought of what would have happened had the revolts been unsuccessful. Would we be part of the British Commonwealth? Would we have a second attempt at change? How would we stand in the world?

-Rachel Gattermeyer