July 4th.

Little known history...

1. Liberty Bell Tradition:

   • Every year on July 4th, descendants of the Declaration of Independence signers tap the Liberty Bell 13 times. This tradition was created to honor the original 13 colonies1.
   • The Liberty Bell, with its iconic crack, symbolizes freedom and independence. First Fireworks Display: The first-ever fireworks display to recognize the Fourth of July holiday took place on July 4, 1777, just one year after the U.S. gained its independence from Great Britain2.
2. • Imagine the awe and wonder of those early spectators as they witnessed colorful explosions lighting up the night sky!

   • John Hancock’s Bold Signature:

     • John Hancock was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence. His bold signature was so memorable that his name became synonymous with the phrase, “Put your John Hancock on this form.”
     • His distinctive autograph remains a powerful symbol of commitment to liberty and self-governance.

   • Presidential Coincidences:

     • John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, both signers of the Declaration of Independence, died on July 4, 1826, which happened to be the 50th anniversary of the Declaration3.
     • Later, the fifth U.S. president, James Monroe, also passed away on July 4, 1831.

     • Apple Pie’s American Roots:

       • Apple pie has been a staple American dessert since the 1700s. Settlers in America sought new traditions, and one way was through food.
       • The first recipe for apple pie in America was published in a cookbook in 1796. It combined British, Dutch, and German influences, resulting in the beloved dessert we know today1.

     So, as you celebrate Independence Day, remember these intriguing tidbits about July 4th! 🇺🇸

Tax Time...

1. Complex Tax Forms:

   • While Form 1040 is considered one of the simpler tax forms, its instructions alone span nearly 200 pages. It’s the form most Americans use to file their taxes1.
   • In contrast, the entire U.S. tax code—including rules, regulations, and legal jargon—comprises almost 4 million words. To put it in perspective, Shakespeare’s complete works total only about 900,000 words1.

2. Tax Professional Variability:

   • Even tax professionals can’t agree! When asked to complete the same tax return for a single family, nearly 50 tax experts produced 50 different answers. So, don’t fret if you make a mistake—nobody’s perfect1.

3. Historical Tax Burden:

   • Around the turn of the 20th century, the average American needed just three weeks to earn enough money to pay state and federal taxes. Nowadays, it takes until April and beyond1.

4. Surprising Tax Categories:

   • Cigarette tax ranks third among taxes paid by Americans, closely followed by court fees and taxes for dog licenses. Apparently, we’re a nation of smokin’, law-abidin’, dog-loving taxpayers! 🚬🐶1.

5. April 15th Traffic Surge:

   • Traffic accidents spike significantly around April 15th, as people rush to the post office to mail their tax returns. But fear not—you, with your Shoeboxed account, will be among the calm drivers on that day1.

6. Tax Evolution:

   • U.S. citizens initially paid taxes only on land and property at the end of the 18th century.
   • It wasn’t until the Civil War that personal incomes began to be taxed, as the government needed additional revenue1.

7. Corporate Tax Rate:

   • The U.S. boasts a hefty 35% corporate tax rate, leading many companies to outsource or establish operations overseas.
   • Some American corporations even set up dummy “storefronts” in countries with lower corporate tax rates to navigate this high rate1.

Remember, taxes may be complex, but these fun facts lighten the burden! 💡💰

It's the same all around the world...

The Seven Wonders

Anna was a 9-year-old girl from a small village. She had just been accepted into a prestigious school in the nearby city. On her first day, she sat nervously in the classroom, surrounded by students who seemed different from her.

The teacher announced a surprise test: “Write down the Seven Wonders of the World.” The students quickly scribbled their answers—The Great Wall of China, Colosseum, Stonehenge, and more. But Anna hesitated.

When everyone else had submitted their papers, the teacher approached Anna. “What happened, dear?” she asked. “Just write down what you know.”

Anna smiled and handed her answer paper to the teacher. Her response left the whole class stunned:

"The 7 Wonders are:

1. To be able to See
2. To be able to Hear
3. To be able to Feel
4. To Laugh
5. To Think
6. To be Kind
7. To Love"

The teacher stood speechless. Anna, a girl from a humble village, had reminded them of life’s true treasures. These gifts were wonders beyond any architectural marvels—the ability to experience, connect, and cherish moments.

Moral of the Story: Value what you have, use what you have, and trust in your own strength. Inspiration lies not only in distant places but also within ourselves. 🌟

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Note: Sometimes, the simplest wonders are the most extraordinary. 😊🌎