1. Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution on January 2, 1788. This would make Georgia one of the first states to celebrate Independence Day on July 4 of the same year.

2. On July 4, 1828, the Marquis de Lafayette visited Savannah, Georgia, as part of his tour of the United States. He was welcomed with a patriotic parade and serenade, where he delivered his celebrated toast: "The Union of the States, it must be preserved."

3. During the Civil War, on July 4, 1862, Union forces led by General David Hunter captured the city of Savannah. Hunter made a public announcement declaring all slaves in Georgia to be "forever free," but this proclamation was later overturned by President Abraham Lincoln.

4. On July 4, 1985, Coca-Cola introduced "New Coke" to the market. The soft drink, which was met with immediate backlash, was created to replace the original formula of Coca-Cola, but was eventually pulled from the market and replaced by "Coca-Cola Classic."

5. Fireworks are a popular tradition on Independence Day in Georgia, with many cities and towns hosting their own displays. One of the largest fireworks shows in the state takes place in Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, where thousands of people gather to watch the colorful display.