A study by Harvard University says Fourth of July parades and celebrations serve as a big boost to the Republican Party.
According to the
Washington Whispers column in US News &
World Report, the Harvard study states that "Fourth of July celebrations in the United States shape the nation's political landscape by forming beliefs and increasing participation, primarily in favor of the Republican Party.
"The political right has been more successful in appropriating American patriotism and its symbols during the 20th century. Survey evidence also confirms that Republicans consider themselves more patriotic than Democrats. According to this interpretation, there is a political congruence between the patriotism promoted on Fourth of July and the values associated with the Republican Party. Fourth of July celebrations in Republican dominated counties may thus be more politically biased events that socialize children into Republicans."
The study also suggests that the Democratic Party derives no political benefits from Independence Day parades and celebrations.
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