4th of July Firework Display History

A Fourth of July celebration would not be complete without the sights, the sounds and the smells of a "splendiferous" firework display. Many Americans take the use of fireworks casually but creating those brilliant colorful displays that mark the 4^th of July Celebration of Independence has a rich history of its own

The Chinese are credited with inventing the fireworks as early as the 9th century. The story goes that cook accidentally mixed three ingredients of potassium nitrate or saltpeter (a salt substitute), sulfur (a flammable solid) and from charred wood. The combination was explosive. When ignited the combination of ingredients produced a combustible force. The Chinese used these fireworks as weapons against their enemies.

By the time of the American Revolution, fireworks had long played a part in celebrating important events. It was natural that not only John Adams, but also many of his countrymen, should think of fireworks when Independence from the British was to be celebrated.

The very first celebration of using fireworks to commemorate the 4^th of July celebration and Independence Day was not held until 1777. Fireworks were a used as part of the revelry and is still a favored tradition in the celebration of this important occasion.

But the fireworks of yesteryear were missing an important element. It wasn't until the 19th century that pyrotechnicians discovered how to give the 4^th of July fireworks an important characteristic that creates the most beautiful displays.

Knowing that color would add to the enjoyment and impact of the fireworks, Pyrotechnicians combined potassium chlorate and other metallic salts that produce amazing vivid color combinations.

Each salt compound produces a specific color. Strontium which is also used for the glass for color television picture tubes. It has also found use in producing ferrite magnets and in refining zinc. Strontium burns red.

Copper is used in pyrotechnic formulas to produce blue and green firework stars.