On July 4th, the streets of the United States fill with flags and excited families celebrating 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 both nations achieved their freedom in different historical contexts, it’s in the way they celebrate that the differences stand out most.
How do Americans and Brazilians celebrate this day?
The 4th of July gained significance for the country in 1776, when the thirteen colonies united to declare independence. Since then, this day means much more than just an American holiday: it marks the birth of a nation.
Across the country, from small towns to big metropolises, a patriotic feeling is evident, marked by barbecues on porches, 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 feature marching bands, red, white, and blue balloons, the national anthem, and decorated vehicles. The famous fireworks even inspired a song by Katy Perry and are the most anticipated event of the day. For tourists, it’s undoubtedly the most striking symbol of this moment, as essential country monuments (like the Statue of Liberty) serve as the backdrop for these fireworks.
In Brazil, two months later, the celebration is different. On September 7th, 1822, D. Pedro officially declared Brazil’s separation from Portugal, with a cry that is still known today: “Independence or Death”. Just like in the United States, many cities in Brazil, including Brasília, start the day with civic and military parades. City halls and the army organize them. Armed forces, public and military schools are present. In general, the day is filled more with official ceremonies than popular parties. The main focus is usually in Brasília, the federal capital, where the three branches of government are located.
The main difference lies in how citizens view this day. Most people often don’t give importance to this historical milestone and use the holiday just to “rest” or “travel with friends and family”, letting its meaning go unnoticed. The celebration happens, but widespread participation is limited.
Patriotism in Both Countries
Anyone who has visited the United States knows that flags are everywhere, and as depicted in movies, American patriotism is always notable. Therefore, nationalism is an integral part of the country’s identity, and national dates like the 4th of July reinforce the sense of collective pride. And they don’t hide it! It’s evident in American cinema, in 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 stimulus to bring them out. The love and pride of being Brazilian are evident in specific moments, like the Olympics, the World Cup, or national achievements in general. For many, the excessive use of national symbols can seem exaggerated or politicized. Despite this, the national anthem is one of the most respected, while flags and other symbols don’t always have the same national impact.
How Do Leaders 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 objectives different from regular days. Politicians use the date to disseminate a symbol of consensus, shaping the meaning of the celebration.
The 7th of September, 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 the 4th of July and the 7th of September mark the same event—the achievement of independence—the way they are celebrated reveals the different paths that the United States and Brazil have taken in their nation-building. In the US, the date is synonymous with belonging and collective pride, a true popular spectacle. In Brazil, the celebration is still largely institutional, distant 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