1. Maine became a state on July 4, 1820. In celebration of this event, the state’s flag depicts a pine tree and a blue north star on a field of buff, representing the unique qualities of Maine’s landscape.

2. On July 4, 1861, the first battle of the Civil War was fought in Maine at the Battle of Philippi. A Union victory, it demonstrated the state’s commitment to preserving the Union.

3. In 1917, on July 4, the U.S. Army established Camp Grant in Maine as a training base for soldiers fighting in World War I. The camp saw over 40,000 soldiers pass through its gates and played a vital role in the war effort.

4. On July 4, 1987, the first lobster boat races were held in Maine’s Boothbay Harbor. The event, which has since become an annual tradition, draws crowds of spectators and features boats racing for prizes and bragging rights.

5. In 2013, on July 4, the Maine State House dome was lit up in blue as part of the “Light It Up Blue” campaign to raise awareness for autism. Governor Paul LePage spearheaded the effort, as he and his wife Ann had a son diagnosed with autism.