What Presidents Died on July 4
From Adviceopedia
It may seem odd at first to wonder what presidents died on July 4, but history tells a dramatic and surprising story. In fact, not one but three different presidents passed away on this already historic date.
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Answers to What Presidents Died on July 4
July 4 is one of the United States of America's most significant holidays. It marks the date of the nation's declaration of independence, and is celebrated by millions of people in a festive display of fireworks and relaxed cookouts. It is also, perhaps, one of the most coincidental dates in American history. Learn more about what else makes this date so noteworthy.
Which Presidents Died on July 4?
Despite the unusual coincidence, it's true: Three presidents passed away on July 4. They are John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe.
Why Else Is This Coincidental?
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson not only died on the same date, they also died in the same year, 1826. This day was the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence's signing, in which both men were richly involved.
How Did John Adams Die?
At 90 years old, John Adams once held the record for the oldest President of the United States, until Ronald Reagan surpassed him decades later. Adams passed away from natural causes. Author John R. Bumgarner, who wrote The Health of the Presidents: The 41 United States Presidents Through 1993 from a Physician's Point of View, suggests that the ultimate cause was congestive heart failure. Given that the Adams family history was a clean one, there was no history of illness, and his parents and sibling lived well into their twilight years – this suggestion is thought to be astute.
How Did Thomas Jefferson Die?
Interestingly, many historical references state that John Adams may have uttered Thomas Jefferson's name right before his passing (though this is widely disputed). He had no idea that Jefferson had actually passed away several hours earlier in the day. Jefferson was 83 when he died. After suffering for years from declining healthy, Jefferson passed away in 1826 from a combination of factors, including old age, kidney infection and severe diarrhea.
How Did James Monroe Die?
James Monroe was 73 when he died in 1831. Monroe suffered from lung problems for at least a year prior to his death. Ultimately, he died from a condition that severely affected his breathing. His death was attributed to tuberculosis, but it should also be noted that no official diagnosis was ever made.
For What Other Reason Is July 4 Significant?
It's not just what presidents died on July 4 that makes the date so politically significant. In fact, President Calvin Coolidge was born on that date in 1872.
