The Spirit of the 4th of July

The 4th of July is a day to celebrate the independence of our nation. While the Summer of Satellite tour leaves Chicago, why not add some movies to your Satellite drive that will really capture the spirit of ’76?

Check out my picks that are the perfect background accompaniment to barbequing hot dogs, preparing fireworks and hangout time with friends and family.

1776: Maybe a musical is an interesting starting point, but for those who didn’t stay awake in history class, this is a nice alternative.  Granted, it’s like watching Titanic, we all know how it’s going to turn out. But the fun is in the journey.

Yankee Doodle Dandy: While not exactly the most patriotic of films, it’s Cagney. The finale alone makes this a worthwhile watch.

The Patriot: Family. Honor. War. A great film about the principles we believe in, and what we are willing to fight for.

Independence Day: Another non-traditional 4th of July film, but still a lot of fun. If the pre-attack speech by President Whitmore didn’t fire you up, then you need your pulse checked.

“Good morning. In less than an hour, aircraft from here will join others from around the world. And you will be launching the largest aerial battle in the history of mankind. “Mankind.” That word should have new meaning for all of us today. We can’t be consumed by our petty differences anymore. We will be united in our common interests. Perhaps it’s fate that today is the Fourth of July, and you will once again be fighting for our freedom… Not from tyranny, oppression, or persecution… but from annihilation. We are fighting for our right to live. To exist. And should we win the day, the Fourth of July will no longer be known as an American holiday, but as the day the world declared in one voice: “We will not go quietly into the night!” We will not vanish without a fight! We’re going to live on! We’re going to survive! Today we celebrate our Independence Day!”

That speech had me riled up and ready…for a sequel…that I’m still waiting for.  But I digress; the 4th of July is a time of celebration for the United States of America.  Enjoy the day, enjoy the break, and enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. But before you do, have some fun with this rap by our founding fathers.

 

2012-07-04T16:47:54+00:00

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