Independence Day: The Olympics and the 5 Most Patriotic Sporting Events

Patriotism is the idea of believing in your country. Patriotism in sports can take place internationally, or simply be an event large enough to bring the entire country together.

Patriotism is everywhere.

A jam-packed stadium, filled with fans observing the same incredible spectacle is a powerful event to observe.

Here are the five most patriotic sporting events:

The Super Bowl

In terms of bringing the American people together, the Super Bowl is tough to match.

Whether it be an incredible tale of perseverance in 2010 by the New Orleans Saints, or an equally incredible upset by the New York Giants in 2008, the Super Bowl has provided countless memories for football fans.

The Super Bowl possesses the rare quality of attracting everyday fans and casual observers. The pure spectacle of the event make it a can't miss.

When the ball is kicked off and the game starts, all the cameras flash in the stands simultaneously.

The flicker of the flash bulbs illuminates the packed stadium, giving fans at home an idea that they are not alone in watching this wonderful event.

The World Series

What is more patriotic than America's national pastime?

The World Series is classic. Every year two teams clash for the right to be called World Series Champions.

Like the Super Bowl, maniacal fans from all over the country come together. They may be rooting for two different teams, but it is a chance to come together for the love of one great game.

Whether fans get to gang up on the Evil Empire in New York, or watch a true underdog in San Francisco, everyone has their own stake in the series.

The Super Bowl and the World Series may be two different sports, but they share one common ground.

The ability to bring people from all over into one stadium for one great series. This ability inspires unity and allows people to realize how great entertainment in this country is.

Daytona 500

Given the proximity of Independence Day to July 2nd, the Daytona 500 is an obvious pick here.

American flags wave, fans cheer, and drivers are out to prove they should be the object of everyone's affection.

NASCAR is still rising in popularity. It may not be on the level of baseball or football, but it packs every race track.

The Daytona 500 serves as a warmup to Independence Day festivities for all NASCAR fans. It is the biggest race of the year, and captivates a very loyal fanbase.

Because of the date proximity, every fan watching has America on their mind.

The World Cup

The World Cup, whether it be men's or women's soccer, is patriotic because it is an international event.

Teams from all over the world compete in the biggest soccer tournament of the year, and rabid fans come out in droves to cheer on their respective countries.

Soccer fans have a flair for the dramatic, as do the players. The drama only increases the patriotism as each team struggles to advance to the next round.

International sporting events give every country participating a rare opportunity to show their clout in a less harmful way than usual.

The World Cup does a great job of bringing Americans together and giving them a common cause to root for.

The Olympics

The Olympics has the privilege of encompassing two seasons, winter and summer.

This offers fans a chance to root on their countries in two totally different events.

The Olympics are the largest international sporting event in the world. The wide array of events gives a diverse crowd a chance to find something to suit their taste.

An opportunity to prove athletic prowess on a global scale is rare. The chance to root on your country is just as rare.

That is why the Olympics are the most patriotic event in the world, no matter the season.