America marked its 250th birthday with fireworks. Gunfire left over 100 dead.

America marked its 250th birthday with fireworks. Gunfire left over 100 dead.

More than 20 mass shootings ruined the historic July 4 weekend, leaving hundreds hurt across the country.

Families met to honor a big milestone of freedom, but instead had to run for their lives as gun violence ruined holiday parties across the nation.

What Happened

Over the 250th Fourth of July weekend, violence broke out in several states. Shootings happened at block parties, festivals, and backyard cookouts.

Data from the Gun Violence Archive shows that the holiday was one of the bloodiest in years. Major shootings occurred in New York, California, and Michigan.

Dozens of neighborhoods are now crying for loved ones instead of marking a major milestone.

Fact Box

• Over 100 people died in shootings during the holiday weekend.
• More than 340 people were hurt by gunfire.
• At least 20 different shootings met the tracker's count for a mass shooting.
• Shootings broke out in many states, including New York, California, and Michigan.
• The numbers come from the Gun Violence Archive, a private tracking group.

Why It Matters

This violence shows that even on a major holiday, gun safety is still a huge issue. Families cannot feel safe when they go out to honor their country.

It also gives foreign news sites a way to speak badly about American life. They use these tragic numbers to argue that the US cannot keep its own people safe during major events.

What Happens Next

Police forces across the country are looking into the shootings and searching for the shooters. Local leaders are facing pressure to make public events safer.

Lawmakers will likely talk about gun laws again, though major changes are unlikely to happen soon.

What We Still Don't Know

1. What caused each of the mass shootings to start?
2. How many shooters have been caught by local police?
3. Will cities change how they protect outdoor holiday events next year?