1. John Adams thought July 2 would be Independence Day.

On July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence from Great Britain. The following day, the congress finalized the wording of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams, a Massachusetts delegate, wrote to his wife Abigail that July 2 would be a day "solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations." However, it is July 4 that is celebrated as Independence Day in the United States.

2. Massachusetts abolished slavery on July 2.

On July 2, 1783, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court issued a ruling in the case of Quock Walker, an enslaved man who had sued for his freedom. The court held that slavery was incompatible with the state's new constitution and that all people were born free and equal. This decision effectively abolished slavery in Massachusetts, making it the first state to do so.

3. Lou Gehrig played his final game as a Red Sox at Fenway Park on July 2.

Before he became a legend with the New York Yankees, Lou Gehrig played for the Boston Red Sox. On July 2, 1925, Gehrig played his final game as a Red Sox at Fenway Park. He was traded to the Yankees the following year and went on to become one of the greatest players in baseball history.

4. The Boston Port Authority was established on July 2.

On July 2, 1956, Massachusetts Governor Christian Herter signed a bill creating the Massachusetts Port Authority. The authority was given the power to develop, operate, and promote ports and airports in the state, including Boston's Logan International Airport.

5. The Battle of Bunker Hill was fought on June 17, but commemorated on July 2.

The Battle of Bunker Hill, which took place on June 17, 1775, was one of the first major battles of the American Revolution. The battle ended in a British victory, but the Americans put up a fierce resistance and inflicted heavy casualties on the Redcoats. The battle was commemorated on July 2, 1797, with the dedication of a monument on Bunker Hill in Charlestown. Today, the Bunker Hill Monument stands as a tribute to the bravery of the American soldiers who fought there.