Happy 250th! A little July 4th Trivia (& some NYLI resources)

You probably know that this July 4th is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence…

But did you know that there are several terms for a 250th anniversary? Quarter millenial... Semiquincentennial… Sestercentennial.. are all being used this July 4th. And, interestingly enough, none of those terms appear in the OED!

You are probably know that the famous enumeration of basic rights – “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” – is from the Declaration of Independence. And you probably know that Thomas Jefferson was the Declaration’s author.

But did you know that the Viriginia Declaration of Rights, written by George Mason and adopted June 12, 1776, included the phrase ” all men are … free and independent and have certain inherent rights…. namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.”

You might know that Enlightenment philosophy was very much a part of Thomas Jefferson’s education. But did you know that John Locke’s Second Treatise of Government (1689), with its emphasis on Natural Law and individual rights, is often considered THE source for the Declaration of Independence.

And, dear reader, if you know me at all , you know I’ve got to include a little Staten Island in this edition of July 4th Trivia….

You probably know (from the musical 1776!) that Ben Franklin and John Adams were instrumental in getting the Declaration of Independence signed….

Conference House: Staten Island Postcards- NYPL Public Domain

But did you know that Adams ,Franklin, and Rutledge met with British Admiral Howe for a peace conference on September 11, 1776 ? The meeting, held at the southern most tip of Staten Island, failed and led to the continuation of the war for seven more years.

And, finally, you probably know that both Jefferson and Adams were attorneys, but did you know that 25 signers of the Declaration of Independence were lawyers?

And you probably know that attorneys (in 1776 and 250 years later) always need accurate and up to date information. But did you know that by joining The New York Law Institute, you’ll have access to the latest treatises, eBooks, Records & Briefs, laws & regulations.. as well as expert research assistance?

Start your own legal research revolution… click here for more about becoming a NYLI member!