In 2026, the United States will mark its 250th anniversary. It’s a rare moment in the life of a nation, one that invites all Americans to pause and reflect. Not only should we reflect on our history, but also on its contemporary significance.
This anniversary isn’t just about dates and documents. It’s about people, places, and stories—millions of them. It’s about how a group of colonies came together in 1776 to declare independence and how that moment set the course for the country we live in now.
Reaching 250 years is a significant event for any nation. It offers a chance to learn more about how the United States began, how it grew, and how it has changed over time. Every era of American history has shaped the present in some way, from early settlements to westward expansion, from war and invention to civic achievements and cultural growth.
Understanding this long story helps people see how past events connect to the world around them today.
A Unifying Moment
America’s 250th can be a unifying moment—not because everyone sees the past the same way, but because anniversaries help bring people together. They offer a shared starting point. Whether through classroom activities, public programs, community service, or family conversations, this milestone is a chance for all Americans to learn more about the country and each other.
The United States has changed a great deal over two and a half centuries. One of the lessons of history is that every generation helps shape what comes next. America’s 250th is not just a moment to look backward—it’s also a time to think forward. It invites people of all ages to consider the following questions:
"What kind of America are we building together—and how will each of us help shape its future?"
An Ongoing Story
By marking 250 years of American history, we recognize both the challenges and the achievements that brought us here. And we remind ourselves that history is not something finished and stored away. It is ongoing—and something that we each continue to write every day.