How did Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" written to celecreate Russia's victory over Napoleon, become associated with America's Fourth of July and fireworks?

Gnomon

The 1812 Overture is one of the loudest, most over-the-top pieces of celebration music ever written. It has real cannons firing at the end of it. It is therefore perfect for any loud occasion where lots of bangs are required, such as a 4th of July celebration. Jul 06 01, 7:15 AM

JReid

JReid says: Arthur Fiedler popularized it as a showpiece for the Pops on the Fourth in order to revive interest in the Esplanade concerts many years ago. It became wildly successful, and now is a staple of the annual concert, even though it has nothing whatever to do with our national holiday. Thu Jul 05 10:30:21 CDT 2001 A footnote I should have added: Fiedler and Boston philanthopist David Mugar collaborated on the idea of using the bombastic 1812 Overture to showcase the fireworks in 1974. When the Bi-Centennial concert was broadcast to the nation in 1976, the music became cemented in the public's consciousness and has been played ever since. Fri Jul 06 08:40:34 CDT 2001 (Reposted as one entry - McG) Apr 06 03, 5:43 PM