Fourth of July: America celebrates Independence Day

From flashy firework displays for massive crowds to small-town parades, Americans celebrated the United States’ 241st birthday in both joyous and serious ways.

Crowds of people lined up along New York City’s East River for the annual Macy’s fireworks show. The display involves 60,000 shells launched from up to five barges and performances by Jennifer Lopez, Sheryl Crow, Brad Paisley and others. Police set up barriers and checkpoints, and heavily armed officers stood guard. (AP)

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