Rescuing America's 250th Anniversary from Trump's Political Appropriation

This article analyzes the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, contrasting it with the 1976 bicentennial celebrations. While both events involve commercialization and political maneuvering, the author argues that Donald Trump is uniquely centering himself in the semiquincentennial narrative. Trump reassembled the controversial 1776 Commission in 2025 to promote a specific historical vision aligned with his personal brand, even attempting to synchronize a UFC match with his 80th birthday. In contrast, historian Marc Stein’s work on the 1976 bicentennial reveals how that era’s celebrations, despite Nixon-era political exploitation and corruption, also spurred inclusive civic engagement. Marginalized communities and activists used the bicentennial to challenge societal norms and demand reforms, transforming the event into a platform for democratic participation. The article suggests that rather than rejecting the Trump-infused spectacle, Americans should engage with the anniversary to create their own meaningful interpretations, echoing the activist spirit of the past. It highlights how commemorations can serve as catalysts for broader social projects and historical reexamination, urging citizens to reclaim the national birthday from purely partisan or self-serving agendas.