Logo
exceptional smiles for all ages

Fun Facts for the Fourth

 

The Fourth of July is a great time to get together with friends and family members for BBQ, games, fireworks, and other celebrations in honor of our country’s independence. While your fellow revelers eat hot dogs and wave flags, you can impress them by sharing these fascinating facts and historical tidbits about some of our country’s traditions and symbols from the team at Willes Orthodontics.

The Statue of Liberty

With a torch in one hand and a tablet in the other, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic and recognizable symbols of our country. However, as recognizable as certain parts of the statue are, not many people know that broken shackles, which represent oppression and tyranny, are lying at Lady Liberty’s feet. According to the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, the copper-plated lady weighs in at a whopping 450,000 tons and has been holding her torch up for more than 125 years, which must make for some impressive arm muscles.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

Since 1916, people have been flocking to Coney Island on the Fourth of July to witness what some people call the “superbowl of competitive eating.” Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating contest challenges competitors to devour as many hot dogs as they can in just ten minutes, with the current record holder swallowing a whopping 68 hot dogs! If you’d like to witness this bizarre and frenzied eating competition but you won’t be anywhere near Coney Island on the fourth, don’t worry. ESPN has been broadcasting this popular event for several years, so you can watch from the comfort of your couch while you eat a reasonably portioned meal.

The History Behind Fireworks

Viewing the nighttime fireworks display is exciting way to finish off the fourth. Many people know that these brilliant displays probably originated with the Chinese. However, many historians also believe that fireworks were stumbled upon when the Chinese roasted bamboo sticks over fires and watched them explode. After many years of roasting the sticks, a group of alchemists created an early form of gunpowder, which they stuffed into the bamboo sticks to create an even more powerful explosion, paving the way for the today’s modern fireworks.

Whether you’re planning on visiting the Statue of Liberty, watching fireworks in Carlsbad, CA, or even participating in a hot dog eating contest, Dr. Michael Willes and our team hope you have a safe and fun-filled holiday. Happy Fourth of July!

Our Patients
love us

“As a dental hygienist in Carlsbad for thirteen years, my expectations are higher than most. The results I have seen on patients over the years as well as on my own children are five stars all the way around.
Thank you, Dr. Willes!”
Debbie, Carlsbad
“We have had four children benefit from the care and expertise of Dr. Willes and his staff. The people in the office really care about not just making beautiful smiles, but engaging and understanding their patients.” Jennifer, Oceanside
“Couldn’t ask for a better team. Always prompt and courteous, with great skills and service.” Richard, San Marcos
“Dr. Willes and his staff clearly love what they do. They are knowledgeable, genuine, and professional, and take pride in creating healthy, beautiful smiles.” Colleen, Carlsbad
“I love Dr. Willes and all the staff! I look forward to my regular visits because it’s like seeing family. My teeth are getting so straight, and I can hardly wait to see my forever smile!” Brandon, Vista
Read More