1. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress declared independence from Great Britain, making July 2 one of the most significant dates in American history. The declaration was signed by John Hancock, the President of the Continental Congress, and it paved the way for the creation of the United States of America.

2. In 1877, the Great Railroad Strike began in Jersey City on July 2. The strike lasted for over a month, during which time thousands of workers across the country walked off the job in protest of low wages and poor working conditions. The strike was one of the largest and most violent labor disputes in American history.

3. On July 2, 1900, the first automobile race in the United States was held in Morris Plains, New Jersey. The race was organized by the Automobile Club of America and featured five cars racing on a 50-mile course. The winner was a driver named Charles E. Duryea who completed the course in just over two hours.

4. In 1921, the Woolworth Building, located in Paterson, New Jersey, opened its doors on July 2. The building was constructed by the F.W. Woolworth Company and was once one of the tallest buildings in the world. Today, it is a registered National Historic Landmark and houses a variety of businesses and government offices.

5. On July 2, 1991, the New Jersey Devils signed future Hall of Fame defenseman Scott Stevens to a contract. Stevens would go on to become one of the most beloved players in team history and led the Devils to three Stanley Cup championships between 1995 and 2003.