Tree Talk: Thunder and fireworks

It's hard to imagine the 4th of July without fireworks! The first official celebration occurred on July 4, 1777 – one year after the adoption of the U.S. Declaration of Independence – with a display of fireworks and firing of cannons and guns. The fireworks tradition has continued ever since, with the addition of family get-togethers, picnics and parades.

Like many inventions, fireworks were creat...