Yes, every American is aware (hopefully) that we celebrate Independence Day on the Fourth of July.

Did you know that our very own founding fathers actually declared Independence on July 2nd?

Here are some ironic, some touching, and some shocking events that also occurred on this day.

1. On July 4th, 1826, former presidents Thomas Jefferson and John Adams pass away.

On the 50th anniversary of the adoption of their own Declaration of Independence, the two close friends died within hours of each other. Irony?

2. On July 4th, 1845, the Texas Congress votes for annexation to the US.

You had us worried, Texas!

3. On July 4th, 1884, the Statue of Liberty is presented to the U.S. in Paris.

Ain't she a beaut?

4. On July 4th, 1942, the first American bombing mission takes place over enemy-occupied Europe during World War II.

An aircraft flown by the U.S. during the strike.

5. On July 4th, 1946, the Philippines gains independence from the U.S.

After 48 years of U.S. sovereignty, the independence of the Philippines was marked by Manuel Roxas retaking his oath as President of the Philippines.

6. On July 4th, 1960, America's new 50-star flag honoring Hawaiian statehood is unfurled.

7. On July 4th, 1985, Tinker Bell's nightly flight begins.

Tink performs her first flight at Magic Kingdom.

8. On July 4th, 1989, 14-year-old actress Drew Barrymore attempts suicide.

America's sweetheart admits to a young life filled with drinking, drug use, and partying, which landed her in rehab more than once.

9. On July 4th, 1996, Hotmail, a free Internet email service, launches.

10. On July 4th, 1999, the United States becomes aware that Osama bin Laden has established his al-Quaeda terrorist base in Afghanistan.

By this time, Bin Laden is wanted by the United States on charges of international terrorism. This is two years before his involvement in the 9/11 suicide attacks by al-Qaeda members upon the U.S.

11. On July 4th, 2003, Los Angeles Lakers basketball star Kobe Bryant is arrested for sexual assault.

Despite being charged with sexual assault and false imprisonment, facing life in prison, and tearfully confessing to committing adultery with his 19-year-old accuser, Bryant’s case never made it to trial.

12. On July 4th, 2004, the cornerstone of the Freedom Tower is laid on the site of the World Trade Center in New York City.

Actual construction would not start for several weeks.

13. On July 4th, 2009, the Statue of Liberty's crown reopens to the public after eight years.

Due to security reasons following the World Trade Center attacks, access to the highest part of the statue was closed until further notice.