On July 4th, the streets of the United States are filled with flags and families excited about the celebration of independence. A few months later, on September 7th, Brazil also celebrates its independence – but in a very different tone. With military parades, official ceremonies, and little popular engagement, the date goes almost unnoticed by many Brazilians. Although the two nations achieved their freedom in different historical contexts, it is in the way they celebrate that the differences draw the most attention.
How do Americans and Brazilians celebrate this day?
The Fourth of July gained significance for the country in 1776, when the thirteen colonies united to declare independence. Since then, this day has meant much more than just an American holiday: it marks the birth of a nation.
Throughout the country, from small towns to large cities, a patriotic feeling is evident, marked by barbecues on balconies, flags everywhere, and civilians dressed in the country’s colors. In addition to all this, the parades are very lively and take over the main streets of each city. They are marked by marching bands, red, white, and blue balloons, the national anthem, and decorated vehicles. The famous fireworks have even been featured in one of Katy Perry’s songs and are the most anticipated event of the day. For tourists, it is undoubtedly the most striking symbol of this moment since essential monuments in the country (such as the Statue of Liberty) are the backdrop for these fireworks.
In Brazil, two months later, the celebration is different. On September 7, 1822, Dom Pedro officially declared Brazil’s separation from Portugal, with a speech that is still known today: “Independence or Death.” Just as in the United States, many cities in Brazil, including Brasilia, begin the day with civic and military parades. City halls and the army organize them. Armed forces, public schools, and military personnel are present. In general, the day is filled more with official ceremonies than popular festivals. The primary focus is usually on Brasília, the federal capital, and where the three branches of government are located.
The main difference lies in how citizens view this day. Most people often do not give importance to this historical milestone and use the holiday only to “rest” or “travel with friends and family”, letting its significance go unnoticed. The celebration occurs, but widespread participation is limited.
Patriotism in both countries
Anyone who has visited the United States knows that flags are ubiquitous, and, as portrayed in movies, the patriotism of Americans is always noticeable. Therefore, nationalism is an integral part of the country’s identity, and national dates like the 4th of July reinforce the feeling of collective pride. And they don’t hide it! It is evident in American cinema, the media, and even in sports.
In Brazil, moments like this are not so obvious. Brazilians often have strong personalities, but it takes a little prodding to bring them out. The love and pride of being Brazilian are evident at specific moments, such as the Olympics, the World Cup, or national achievements in general. For many, the overuse of national symbols can seem exaggerated or politicized. Despite this, the national anthem is one of the most respected, while flags and other symbols do not always have the same national impact.
How do rulers use these dates?
Those in power strategically use American Independence Day to reinforce ideas of unity, democracy, and freedom. Patriotic speeches are made, but with different objectives from those of normal days. Politicians use the date to spread a symbol of consensus, shaping the significance of the celebration.
September 7th, in turn, is often used as a stage for intense political demonstrations. Some presidents have used the parade as an opportunity for political mobilization, which has generated criticism and confusion about the use of the date.
While July 4th and September 7th mark the same event — the achievement of independence — the way they are celebrated reveals the different paths that the United States and Brazil took in their national construction. In the US, the date is synonymous with belonging and collective pride, a true popular spectacle. In Brazil, the celebration is still largely institutional, far removed from people’s daily lives. This difference in popular engagement plays a significant role in shaping the cultural aspects of the celebrations.
EDUARDA DE NADAI GENERATO
Journalist