Some are longer than a blue whale. Others are barely larger than a grain of sand. One species unleashes one of the most deadly venoms on earth; another holds a secret that’s behind some of the greatest breakthroughs in biology. They’ve inhabited the ocean for at least half a billion years, and they’re still flourishing. David Gruber investigates the secret powers of jellyfish.

What gives fireworks their brilliant colors? It has something to do with table salt.

As Hessians arrive off the coast of Staten Island (7/4/76), John Adams finally convinces Congress that independence is the only answer to the colonies’ problems. They ask Thomas Jefferson to write the first draft of a “Declaration of Independence.” Shortly after the Declaration is signed on July 4th, a massive British fleet enters New York harbor. Ben Franklin realizes that "we must hang together or we will surely hang separately.” James learns about the tremendous power of words.

Happy 4th of July!! Join Broadcast Cal as he shares 10 interesting facts about America's birthday that you might not know! Some of the facts will surprise you.