Behind the Bang: Fireworks Finances

Every year, America celebrates its independence with millions of dollars worth of explosives imported from China. Zachary Crockett lights a fuse and backs away quickly.

• SOURCES:
  • JJ Brau, fireworks coordinator for J&M Displays.
  • Mark Johnson, vice president of J&M Displays.

• RESOURCES:
  • "The explosive history of fireworks, from ancient China to Revolutionary America," by Joe Hernandez (NPR, 2024).
  • "July 4 fireworks fiasco solved – technically," by Jonathan Horn (The San Diego Union-Tribune, 2016).
  • "The Fireworks King," by Damian Paletta and Emily Rauhala (The Washington Post, 2018).
  • "Exploding The Mystery Of Blue Fireworks," by Short Wave (2013).
  • "How Do Fireworks Make Shapes?" by Natalie Wolchover (Live Science, 2011).

• EXTRAS:
  • "Agreement Between The City of Rapid City and J&M Displays, Inc. for Annual Fireworks Displays" (2023).