The Fourth of July
July 4 Barbecue From America's Melting Pot
All over the world, people have been grilling since they discovered fire, and immigrants to the United States brought their signature flavors with them. Hot dogs and burgers are joined by chorizo, kalbi, yakitori, kebab and more as we fire up the grill for Independence Day.
Bruce Springsteen, the NPR audience favorite, plays in front of the flag, circa 1984.
The Songs That Make You Proud Of Your Country
You told us the songs that make you proud to be from wherever you're from, be it the U.S., Argentina or Brooklyn.
The Founding Fathers are depicted in the painting Declaration of Independence.
Reading The Declaration Of Independence Aloud
For 23 years, Morning Edition has observed an Independence Day tradition: hosts, reporters, newscasters and commentators reading the Declaration of Independence aloud.
Food
Searching History For The Hot Dog's Origin()
July 4, 2011 Linguist Ben Zimmer says the hot dog's name didn't come from a cartoonist's dachshund. "This has been a very sturdy myth, even though there is not a bit of truth to this story," he says.
News
July Means Fireworks And New State Laws()
July 1, 2011 Many new laws will be enacted on July 1, when most states begin a new fiscal year. And they'll change how people live in ways big and small. Connecticut, for one, will start to tax yoga sessions. Other laws target immigration policy and the use of cellphones while driving.
Radio Pictures
Expert Grilling: Barbecue, Peaches And Spicy Corn()
July 1, 2011 Tired of the same old burgers and hot dogs for July 4? Barbecue master Steven Raichlen joins Morning Edition host Steve Inskeep to explore some other options. The menu includes cinnamon-speared peaches, Mexican grilled corn, and pulled pork sliders.
Deceptive Cadence
What Makes Music American?()
June 30, 2011 For the Fourth of July we ponder the possibilities of a distinctly American sound in classical music.
NPR Double Take
Double Take 'Toons: Things That Go Boom!()
June 30, 2011 Americans began using fireworks to celebrate our independence on July 4, even before we won it from the British. Jim Day doesn't think much of firecracker and other explosive fireworks bans, while Rick Parker sees some sense in temporarily laying off this year. What's it like where you live?
Sweetness And Light
Hot Dog! It's Independence Day!()
June 29, 2011 Hot dogs are great to eat at sports events. But commentator Frank Deford doesn't think eating hot dogs should be a sports event.
The Two-Way
Thank You, Mr. Jefferson, From A 'Citizen'()
July 4, 2010 As he drafted the Declaration of Independence, the founding father replaced the word "subjects" with "citizens." We all owe him our gratitude.
History
The Declaration Of Independence, Read Aloud()
July 2, 2010 For 22 years, Morning Edition has observed an Independence Day tradition: hosts, reporters, newscasters and commentators reading the Declaration of Independence aloud.
NPR Music Essentials
A Mix For America()
June 29, 2010 From representative democracy and free speech to the ingenuity that gave the world deep-fried cheese and Slankets, America has proven itself worthy of a continuous music mix extolling her virtues. It's the finest time of the year to sit at your computer streaming a whole bunch of music that sings the praises of our great land.
