1. North Dakota Celebrated Its First Independence Day in 1889
North Dakota was not yet a state during the first Independence Day in 1776. It wasn't until 1889 that North Dakota became a state and celebrated its first Independence Day.

2. The First Fireworks in North Dakota Were Lit in 1889
As part of North Dakota's first Independence Day celebration in 1889, fireworks were lit for the first time. This tradition continues today, with many communities across the state holding their own fireworks shows on July 4th.

3. North Dakota Played an Important Role in World War II on July 4th
On July 4, 1942, the U.S. Army Air Force conducted a bombing raid over the Japanese city of Kiska. The raid was led by a North Dakota native, Lt. Col. William O. Eareckson, who went on to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions during the raid.

4. July 4th Parades are a Montana Tradition
Many towns and cities in Montana hold parades on July 4th, but the town of Mandan, North Dakota has one of the oldest and largest Independence Day parades in the state. The parade has been held annually since 1881 and attracts thousands of spectators.

5. Theodore Roosevelt Visited North Dakota on July 4th, 1910
On July 4th, 1910, former President Theodore Roosevelt visited Dickinson, North Dakota as part of a tour of the western United States. Roosevelt was a well-known advocate for conservation and visited North Dakota to deliver a speech on the importance of preserving the nation's natural resources.