How America has celebrated milestone birthdays, from world fairs to the World Cup
News
America’s big birthdays can’t escape the times they’re in.
This year’s 250th celebrations come at a tumultuous moment for the country, between economic uncertainty, foreign conflicts and political polarization.
And they have faced accusations of politicization, in large part because President Trump — in addition to using the anniversary to push for controversial construction projects — created his own planning committee to bypass an existing bipartisan one.
Details
Marc Stein, a history professor at San Francisco State University and the author of Bicentennial: A Revolutionary History Of The 1970s, sees some “eerie parallels” between 2026 and the last big birthday in 1976.
“We’re, quote-unquote, ‘celebrating’ in the aftermath of impeachment proceedings, in the aftermath of major Supreme Court decisions about executive authority and presidential leadership,” he told NPR. “Again, quote-unquote, ‘celebrating’ in the midst of international conflict, energy and economic crises.”
Plans for this summer include concerts and commemorations across the country. The nation’s capital is hosting a massive fireworks display and a controversial state fair. And 16 U.S. cities are hosting World Cup soccer games, proving a patriotic experience for locals and tourists.
Analysis
How does all this compare to America’s past birthday parties?
NPR spoke to historians about how the U.S. marked other big milestones between 1826 and 1926 (you can read more about 1976). They evolved over the years from organic celebrations to more expensive — and sometimes controversial — affairs.
Historian and author Fergus Bordewich says part of the change in tone is due to the passage of time.
Stay informed with the latest news on Wararka.so — your trusted source for Somalia and world news.
