[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 76 (Tuesday, May 20, 2014)]
[House]
[Page H4482]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 COMMEMORATING THE 239TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MECKLENBURG DECLARATION OF 
                              INDEPENDENCE

  (Mr. HUDSON asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 239th 
anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.
  This date marks an important moment in our Nation's history, when 
brave North Carolinians, bound by their common pursuit of freedom, 
became the first Americans to declare independence from the tyrannical 
crown of Great Britain. This courageous act of defiance paved the way 
for our great experiment in democracy.
  It is no wonder that, with these type of bold leaders, British 
commander General Cornwallis was unable to hold his occupation of the 
city of Charlotte and was, therefore, prompted to write that it was a 
``hornet's nest of rebellion.''
  Mr. Speaker, it is also worth noting that, on this very day today, 
the Charlotte Bobcats--excuse me, the Charlotte Hornets--finally and 
rightfully get their buzz back.
  I am so proud of our heritage and for the leadership that the State 
of North Carolina continues to provide this great Nation.
  Mr. Speaker, on this festive day, I want to congratulate the city of 
Charlotte and all North Carolinians, and I welcome each and every one 
of my colleagues to join me in celebrating this important moment in our 
history.

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