People are approaching this Independence Day with mixed feelings. Polls show declining national pride, especially among Democrats, during the Trump era.

Known now as a day of patriotism and enjoying time off from work, the Fourth of July began the journey to becoming a quintessential American holiday in 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.

Displays of patriotism were evident at parades and hot dog eating contests, even at a time of deep political divisions among Americans.