America 250

Author Jane Aiken discusses the events, controversies and people that shaped the history of the Library of Congress.

History Professor Aaron Aster of Maryville College (TN) explores Appalachia's role in the founding of the United States, including how the American Revolution unfolded alongside conflicts among European and indigenous people over control of the land.

C-SPAN tours the tall ship Kalmar Nyckel as it visits Alexandria, Virginia, during America's 250th anniversary.

Journalist & author Evan Thomas reflects on the life & legacy of Benjamin Harrison, America's 23rd president (1889-1893). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian & author Nancy K. Smith reflects on the life & legacy of First Lady Caroline Harrison.

Stanford University constitutional scholar Jonathan Gienapp revisits the debates that engaged the Founders as they drafted the Constitution.

Author Troy Senik reflects on the life & legacy of President Grover Cleveland (1885-89, 1893-97). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Joe Sullivan of the Delaware Public Archives examines Delaware's role in the American Revolution. He speaks as part of a Tavern Talk historical program in Milton, Delaware.

Historian and James Garfield biographer C.W. Goodyear reflects on the life & legacy of the 20th U.S. president (March-September 1881). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN tours an exhibit of artifacts that were part of Martha Washington's 1802 estate sale at Mount Vernon.

C-SPAN tours the National Archives' Free & Independent Exhibit, which explores the origins and inspiration for the Declaration of Independence.

Historian H.W. Brands reflects on the life & legacy of Chester Arthur, the 21st U.S. president (1881-85). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Cornwallis' surrender sword was the ceremonial weapon offered by British Gen. Charles O'Hara to Gen. George Washington during the surrender of Lord Charles Cornwallis at Yorktown on October 19, 1781.

George Washington (portrayed by Dan Shippey) and Ben Franklin (portrayed by Mark Skousen) talk about the 250th anniversary of American independence.

National Review's Richard Brookhiser talks about Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette's return to the United States from France in 1824.

To mark America's 250th birthday, the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square in Salt Lake City delivers a special performance of patriotic music during its weekly Music & the Spoken Word program.

As part of the nation's 250th birthday celebration, the congressionally mandated America's Time Capsule is buried at Independence Mall in Philadelphia. It will remain sealed until 2276.

Boston hosts the annual July 4 Faneuil Hall Oration, a public address that dates to 1771 to commemorate the Boston Massacre and celebrates America's independence.

Chicago marks America's 250th birthday with a fireworks display.

Commerce City, Colorado, near Denver, marks America's 250th birthday with a fireworks display.

As part of its celebration of America's 250th birthday, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, hosts a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a naturalization ceremony for new U.S. citizens.

Denver marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade.

To celebrate America's 250th birthday, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in Honolulu hosts an Independence Day commemoration featuring military leaders and local government officials.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, and talks with historian and author Douglas Brinkley.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from parades from across the country, and the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

As part of America's 250th birthday celebration, Vice President JD Vance and military officials attend an International Naval Review at the Port of New York and New Jersey.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from the Salute to America program from the National Mall, including remarks from President Donald Trump.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage of fireworks celebrations, including the Salute to America program from Washington DC's National Mall and remarks by President Donald Trump.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Gov. Kelly Armstrong (R-ND), historians, and living descendants of Theodore Roosevelt attend the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

Pittsburgh marks America's 250th birthday with a fireworks display.

Freedom 250 hosts Salute to America, a program featuring musical performances, historical narratives, fireworks, and remarks by President Donald Trump and other officials. The event is held on Washington, D.C.'s National Mall.

Spectrum News hosts a program from various locations marking America's 250th birthday.

St. Louis marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade.

Tampa, Florida marks America's 250th birthday with a fireworks display.

The Virginia 250 organization hosts America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together, a national celebration in Colonial Williamsburg featuring musical performances, historical presentations, fireworks, and a drone show.

Washington, D.C. marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade, the first in the nation for July 4, 2026.

Mount Rushmore in South Dakota marks America's 250th birthday with a celebration including music, remarks by President Donald Trump, and fireworks.

George Washington's Mount Vernon in Virginia celebrates America's 250th birthday with a fireworks celebration.

Philadelphia celebrates America's 250th birthday with the Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade, the largest professionally-produced parade in the nation.

Pope Leo XIV, in virtual remarks from Rome, receives the National Constitution Center's Liberty Medal at a ceremony in Philadelphia.

At Sandy Hook, New Jersey, the organization Sail 4th 250 hosts an opening ceremony for a tall ships parade at the Ports of New York and New Jersey.

Spectrum News airs a special America 250 program surrounding the Times Square, New York City ball drop to mark the start of Independence Day in the Eastern Time Zone.

The organization America250 hosts ball drops in New York City's Times Square to mark the country's semiquincentennial.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from Philadelphia's Independence Day Parade, and the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from the Independence Day celebration at Mount Rushmore, and a parade from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the first in the nation on July 4.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, and talks with Lindsay Chervinsky, Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from the Independence Day celebration at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.

Spectrum News previews 250 years of America's independence by highlighting historic sites across America.

As part of America's 250th birthday celebration, Philadelphia hosts the Red, White & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade near the city's historic sites. The parade features floats decorated with iconic Philadelphia landmarks, drill teams, and cultural dance p.

Historians, conservationists, business leaders, and government officials reflect on the life and legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, America's 26th president (1901-09). They speak at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

Yale University law and political science professor Akhil Reed Amar explores the U.S. Constitution and democracy at a gathering of mayors at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia.

Historians Jon Meacham and Danielle Allen, former Archivist of the United States Colleen Shogan, and Robert Costa of CBS News explore America's past, present and future at an event held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.

Historian & author Jon Meacham hosts an America 250 trivia competition at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.

President Trump tours the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History Director Anthea Hartig walks C-SPAN through the museum's exhibition exploring the ideals of the Declaration of Independence.

Historians examine the Revolutionary War at a conference hosted by Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Historians examine the Revolutionary War at a conference hosted by Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Historians examine the Revolutionary War at a conference hosted by Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Yale University political science professor Stephen Skowronek reflects on the life & legacy of Rutherford Hayes, the 19th U.S. president (1877-81). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 20.

Sail250 Maryland welcomes an international fleet of tall ships celebrating America's 1776 founding.

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill hold a semiquincentennial time capsule ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

President Donald Trump holds a rally to kick off the 16-day Great American State Fair, part of Washington, D.C.'s celebration of the nation's 250thbirthday.

Museum of the U.S. Army Chief Curator Paul Morando gives C-SPAN's American History TV a tour of the museum's Call to Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War special exhibit.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History Curator Jennifer Jones gives C-SPAN a rare, up-close look at the original Star-Spangled Banner, the flag flown over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.

University of West Florida professor Judith Bense explores Florida's role in the American Revolution, including Spain's 1781 invasion of British-held Florida. She speaks at an event hosted by Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.

Historian and U.S. Army veteran Gerald Flinchum explores Georgia's role in the American Revolution. He speaks at an event hosted by the Cobb County Library in Kennesaw, Georgia.

Harvard University history professor Annette Gordon-Reed reflects on the life and legacy of President Andrew Johnson. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Retired Army General Stanley McChrystal reflects on the life and legacy of President Ulysses Grant. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Retired Army General Stanley McCrystal reflects on the life and legacy of President Ulysses Grant. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Scholar Yuval Levin reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Julia Grant (1869-77). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

C-SPAN's American History TV receives rare access inside the National Archives vault in Washington, D.C.

Author Craig Fehrman offers a new historical recounting of the Lewis and Clark expedition (1804 - 1806).

Alan Pell Crawford, author of This Fierce People, explores Revolutionary War battles in the south and the people who fought them. He speaks at the Library of Virginia in Richmond.

Author Zara Anishanslin, author of The Painter's Fire, explores the role artists played in promoting ideals during the Revolutionary Era. She speaks at the Library of Virginia in Richmond.

Journalist and author Lois Romano reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

The Lewis & Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution hosts a dedication ceremony for a Revolutionary War memorial in Beaverton, Oregon.

George Washington's Mount Vernon examines religion in early America and George Washington's role in ensuring religious freedom.

Historian and former Harvard University president Drew Gilpin Faust reflects on the life and legacy of President James Buchanan. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Scholars of American history, law, and politics explored the impact of the Revolutionary Era on the founding and development of the American republic. The event was hosted by the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C.

Scholars of American history, law, and politics explored the impact of the Revolutionary Era on the creation of the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1787. The event was hosted by the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C.

Historians discuss the textile choices of women in Revolutionary-era New England and how wardrobe preferences affected the Revolution.

Diana Carlin, co-author of Remember the First Ladies, reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Jane Pierce. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Scholars examine the formative years of the U.S. Navy & Marine Corps, from 1775 to 1850, and discuss how maritime forces shaped the nation.

Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia hosts a tour of gravesites and memorials connected to the Revolutionary War.

Diana Carlin, co-author of Remember the First Ladies, reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Jane Pierce. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, author Rick Atkinson, and retired Marine Corps Gen. Joseph Dunford discuss Revolutionary War leadership at an event held at George Washington's Mount Vernon.

Yale University history professor David Blight reflects on the life and legacy of President Franklin Pierce. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Former Rep. Steve Israel (D-NY), who is now an author & bookstore owner, reflects on the life and legacy of President Millard Fillmore. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN tours an exhibit of artifacts that were part of Martha Washington's 1802 estate sale at Mount Vernon.

Nathan Richardson, portraying Frederick Douglass, speaks about how Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln viewed America's founding ideals.

Historian Michael Cohen reflects on the life and legacy of President Zachary Taylor. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian Amy Greenberg reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Sarah Polk (1845-49). Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Matthew Costello, chief education officer for the White House Historical Association, reflects on the life & legacy of President James Polk. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday.

C-SPAN tours the Fraunces Tavern in New York City, a meeting place for the Sons of Liberty during the American Revolution and the first executive office building of the United States after the war.

Christopher Leahy, author of President without a Party-The Life of John Tyler, reflects on the life & legacy of the tenth U.S. president.

Robert Watson, author of Declaration-The Story of American Independence, explores the origins of the Declaration of Independence. He speaks at the Fraunces Tavern Museum in New York City.

Massachusetts officials mark the 250th anniversary of Evacuation Day, which commemorates the 1776 retreat by British forces from Boston and surrounding areas early in the Revolutionary War.

Educator, author, and podcaster Sharon McMahon reflects on the life and legacy of William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. president. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Jon Meacham, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning biography, American Lion, reflects on the life and legacy of Andrew Jackson. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian and Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch reflects on the life and legacy of Martin Van Buren. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

The National Archives launches Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation, a traveling exhibition bringing original, Founding Era documents to eight American cities.

Author and New Yorker staff writer Louisa Thomas reflects on the life and legacy of Louisa Adams. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday, and is read by content producer Anne Fertig.

George Washington Presidential Library Executive Director Lindsay Chervinsky reflects on the life and legacy of John Quincy Adams. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

White House Historical Association President Stewart McLaurin reflects on the life and legacy of James Monroe. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian Aaron Sullivan and curator Caroline O'Connell explore life among residents of Philadelphia during the 1777 British occupation of the city. The event is held at the American Philosophical Society in Philadelphia.

Historian Catherine Allgor reflects on the life and legacy of Dolley Madison. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN tours the Museum of the American Revolution's Declaration's Journey exhibit, which explores the history and global impact of the Declaration of Independence from 1776 to today.

Monticello's Andrew Davenport reflects on the life and legacy of Thomas Jefferson. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Harvard University Professor Danielle Allen reflects on the life and legacy of John Adams. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Historian Joseph Ellis reflects on the life and legacy of Abigail Adams. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year. It is recorded by historian and content producer Anne Fertig.

Reenactors mark the anniversary of the December 1773 debate at Boston's Old South Meeting House which preceded the American colonists' destruction of tea shipments in Boston Harbor as a protest against British policies.

Historian Karin Wulf reflects on the life and legacy of Martha Washington; her recorded essay is part of a project called ``In Pursuit,`` commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday.

Former President George W. Bush reflects on the life and legacy of George Washington. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN tours The American Story exhibit, which shows items and records in the National Archives that tell important moments through 250 years of American history.

American History TV chronicles a year of preservation work in George Washington's bedchamber in his Mount Vernon mansion home.

Reenactors mark the January 1777 Battle of Princeton during an event held at Princeton Battlefield State Park in New Jersey. The battle is considered a key turning point in the Revolutionary War as it led to a British retreat from New Jersey.

C-SPAN tours Manhattan's oldest surviving home, built in 1765 for British military officer Roger Morris, which served as a headquarters for Gen. George Washington during the American Revolution and was later home to Stephen & Eliza Jumel and Aaron B.

Reenactors mark the anniversary of the Christmas 1776 crossing of the Delaware River by Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army. The event is held in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania.

George Washington's Mount Vernon recounts the Continental Army's 1776 crossing of the Delaware River into New Jersey, along with the Battles of Trenton and Princeton that followed.

Touring Trinity Church and St. Paul's Chapel in New York, the congregants of which played a significant role during the American Revolution.

Reenactors mark the anniversary of the 1780 Battle of Camden, a victory by British troops over colonial soldiers in South Carolina. The reenactment takes place in Kershaw, South Carolina.

American Battlefield Trust recounts the history of the Revolutionary War, from the early skirmishes at Lexington and Concord to the final British surrender at Yorktown.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Atkinson explains similarities between America's Founding Generation and the World War II Generation; he speaks at the Ford Leadership Forum in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Journalist and author Lois Romano reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Historian and former Harvard University president Drew Gilpin Faust reflects on the life and legacy of President James Buchanan. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Archaeologists announce the discovery of artifacts in western Pennsylvania now declared to be the site of a 1758 friendly fire incident; the incident involves a British regiment from Virginia led by George Washington during the French and Indian War.

More than 1,000 reenactors take part in an event to mark the 250th anniversary of the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill; the reenactment is held at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Mass., with 20,000 spectators in attendance.

A walking tour of Boston's Freedom Trail features stops at the site of the Boston Massacre, Old State House, Faneuil Hall, and Old North Church. The tour is organized by Hub Town Tours of Boston.

Fort Ticonderoga in upstate New York holds a reenactment of the May 1775 capture of the British-held fort by Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys during the Revolutionary War.

As part of its celebration of America's 250th birthday, George Washington's Mount Vernon hosts a naturalization ceremony during which dozens of people from around the world become new U.S. citizens.

The Museum of the Ameican Revolution hosts a walking tour of historic sites in Philadelphia.

Author Craig Fehrman offers a new historical recounting of the Lewis and Clark expedition (1804 - 1806).

Historians discuss the textile choices of women in Revolutionary-era New England and how wardrobe preferences affected the Revolution.

Author Zara Anishanslin, author of The Painter's Fire, explores the role artists played in promoting ideals during the Revolutionary Era. She speaks at the Library of Virginia in Richmond.

Alan Pell Crawford, author of This Fierce People, explores Revolutionary War battles in the south and the people who fought them. He speaks at the Library of Virginia in Richmond.

Scholars of American history, law, and politics explored the impact of the Revolutionary Era on the creation of the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1787. The event was hosted by the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C.

Yale University history professor David Blight reflects on the life and legacy of President Franklin Pierce. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Scholars of American history, law, and politics explored the impact of the Revolutionary Era on the founding and development of the American republic. The event was hosted by the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C.

The Lewis & Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution hosts a dedication ceremony for a Revolutionary War memorial in Beaverton, Oregon.

George Washington's Mount Vernon examines religion in early America and George Washington's role in ensuring religious freedom.

Scholars gathered by the Abraham Lincoln Institute explore how Lincoln viewed concepts in the Declaration of Independence and how they shaped his policies. The event takes place at the Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia hosts a tour of gravesites and memorials connected to the Revolutionary War.

Massachusetts officials mark the 250th anniversary of Evacuation Day, which commemorates the 1776 retreat by British forces from Boston and surrounding areas early in the Revolutionary War.

C-SPAN tours the Fraunces Tavern in New York City, a meeting place for the Sons of Liberty during the American Revolution and the first executive office building of the United States after the war.

Scholars examine the formative years of the U.S. Navy & Marine Corps, from 1775 to 1850, and discuss how maritime forces shaped the nation.

Archaeologists announce the discovery of artifacts in western Pennsylvania now declared to be the site of a 1758 friendly fire incident; the incident involves a British regiment from Virginia led by George Washington during the French and Indian War.

Historian Michael Cohen reflects on the life and legacy of President Zachary Taylor. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN's American History TV takes a walking tour of Revolutionary War-era sites in Lower Manhattan.

Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, author Rick Atkinson, and retired Marine Corps Gen. Joseph Dunford discuss Revolutionary War leadership at an event held at George Washington's Mount Vernon.

American Battlefield Trust recounts the Revolutionary War's Northern Campaign, fought primarily in New England and New York from 1775 to 1781.

The National Archives launches Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation, a traveling exhibition bringing original, Founding Era documents to eight American cities.

C-SPAN's American History TV receives rare access inside the National Archives vault in Washington, D.C.

C-SPAN tours The American Story exhibit, which shows items and records in the National Archives that tell important moments through 250 years of American history.

C-SPAN tours Manhattan's oldest surviving home, built in 1765 for British military officer Roger Morris, which served as a headquarters for Gen. George Washington during the American Revolution and was later home to Stephen & Eliza Jumel and Aaron B.

C-SPAN tours the Museum of the American Revolution's Declaration's Journey exhibit, which explores the history and global impact of the Declaration of Independence from 1776 to today.

American History TV chronicles a year of preservation work in George Washington's bedchamber in his Mount Vernon mansion home.

Touring Trinity Church and St. Paul's Chapel in New York, the congregants of which played a significant role during the American Revolution.

The Museum of the American Revolution hosts a walking tour of historic sites in Philadelphia.

Museum of the U.S. Army Chief Curator Paul Morando gives C-SPAN's American History TV a tour of the museum's Call to Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War special exhibit.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History Curator Jennifer Jones gives C-SPAN a rare, up-close look at the original Star-Spangled Banner, the flag flown over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.

University of West Florida professor Judith Bense explores Florida's role in the American Revolution, including Spain's 1781 invasion of British-held Florida. She speaks at an event hosted by Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.

Historian and U.S. Army veteran Gerald Flinchum explores Georgia's role in the American Revolution. He speaks at an event hosted by the Cobb County Library in Kennesaw, Georgia.

Harvard University history professor Annette Gordon-Reed reflects on the life and legacy of President Andrew Johnson. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Retired Army General Stanley McChrystal reflects on the life and legacy of President Ulysses Grant. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Scholar Yuval Levin reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Julia Grant (1869-77). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

Retired Army General Stanley McChrystal reflects on the life and legacy of President Ulysses Grant. His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historians examine the Revolutionary War at a conference hosted by Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Historians examine the Revolutionary War at a conference hosted by Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Historians examine the Revolutionary War at a conference hosted by Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History Director Anthea Hartig walks C-SPAN through the museum's exhibition exploring the ideals of the Declaration of Independence.

Yale University political science professor Stephen Skowronek reflects on the life & legacy of Rutherford Hayes, the 19th U.S. president (1877-81). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 20.

President Donald Trump holds a rally to kick off the 16-day Great American State Fair, part of Washington, D.C.'s celebration of the nation's 250thbirthday.

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill hold a semiquincentennial time capsule ceremony commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Sail250 Maryland welcomes an international fleet of tall ships celebrating America's 1776 founding.

Unprecedented coverage of the U.S. semi-quincentennial with live events, expert insights and exclusive access to historic sites, documents and re-enactments celebrating 250 years of American history and democracy.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from Philadelphia's Independence Day Parade, and the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, and talks with Lindsay Chervinsky, Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from the Independence Day celebration at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from the Independence Day celebration at Mount Rushmore, and a parade from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the first in the nation on July 4.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, and talks with historian and author Douglas Brinkley.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from parades from across the country, and the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage from the Salute to America program from the National Mall, including remarks from President Donald Trump.

C-SPAN marks the nation's 250th birthday with coverage of fireworks celebrations, including the Salute to America program from Washington DC's National Mall and remarks by President Donald Trump.

Jon Meacham, author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning biography, American Lion, reflects on the life and legacy of Andrew Jackson. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

White House Historical Association President Stewart McLaurin reflects on the life and legacy of James Monroe. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Reenactors mark the January 1777 Battle of Princeton during an event held at Princeton Battlefield State Park in New Jersey. The battle is considered a key turning point in the Revolutionary War as it led to a British retreat from New Jersey.

Reenactors mark the anniversary of the Christmas 1776 crossing of the Delaware River by Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army. The event is held in Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania.

George Washington's Mount Vernon recounts the Continental Army's 1776 crossing of the Delaware River into New Jersey, along with the Battles of Trenton and Princeton that followed.

Historians Jon Meacham and Danielle Allen, former Archivist of the United States Colleen Shogan, and Robert Costa of CBS News explore America's past, present and future at an event held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.

Historian & author Jon Meacham hosts an America 250 trivia competition at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.

Educator, author, and podcaster Sharon McMahon reflects on the life and legacy of William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. president. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Christopher Leahy, author of President without a Party-The Life of John Tyler, reflects on the life & legacy of the tenth U.S. president. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Matthew Costello, chief education officer for the White House Historical Association, reflects on the life & legacy of President James Polk. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday.

Reenactors mark the anniversary of the 1780 Battle of Camden, a victory by British troops over colonial soldiers in South Carolina. The reenactment takes place in Kershaw, South Carolina.

National Review's Richard Brookhiser talks about Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette's return to the United States from France in 1824.

Historian and Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch reflects on the life and legacy of Martin Van Buren. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian Amy Greenberg reflects on the life and legacy of First Lady Sarah Polk (1845-49). Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday this year.

President Trump tours the new Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

Author and New Yorker staff writer Louisa Thomas reflects on the life and legacy of Louisa Adams. Her essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday, and is read by content producer Anne Fertig.

Harvard University Professor Danielle Allen reflects on the life and legacy of John Adams; her recorded essay is part of a project called "In Pursuit," commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian Catherine Allgor reflects on the life and legacy of Dolley Madison. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian Karin Wulf reflects on the life and legacy of Martha Washington; her recorded essay is part of a project called "In Pursuit," commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday.

George Washington Presidential Library Executive Director Lindsay Chervinsky reflects on the life and legacy of John Quincy Adams. Her recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Historian Joseph Ellis reflects on the life and legacy of Abigail Adams; his essay is part of a project called "In Pursuit," commissioned to help mark America's 250th birthday; it is recorded by historian and content producer Anne Fertig.

Monticello's Andrew Davenport reflects on the life and legacy of Thomas Jefferson. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Reenactors mark the anniversary of the December 1773 debate at Boston's Old South Meeting House which preceded the American colonists' destruction of tea shipments in Boston Harbor as a protest against British policies.

More than 1,000 reenactors take part in an event to mark the 250th anniversary of the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill; the reenactment is held at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Mass., with 20,000 spectators in attendance.

Fort Ticonderoga in upstate New York holds a reenactment of the May 1775 capture of the British-held fort by Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys during the Revolutionary War.

American Battlefield Trust recounts the history of the Revolutionary War, from the early skirmishes at Lexington and Concord to the final British surrender at Yorktown.

Stanford University history professor Jack Rakove reflects on the life and legacy of James Madison. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

George Washington (portrayed by Dan Hazard) and Ben Franklin (portrayed by Mark Skousen) talk about the 250th anniversary of American independence.

Former President George W. Bush reflects on the life and legacy of George Washington. His recorded essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Yale University law and political science professor Akhil Reed Amar explores the U.S. Constitution and democracy at a gathering of mayors at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia.

As part of America's 250th birthday celebration, Philadelphia hosts the Red, White & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade near the city's historic sites. The parade features floats decorated with iconic Philadelphia landmarks, drill teams, and cultural dance p.

Historians, conservationists, business leaders, and government officials reflect on the life and legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, America's 26th president (1901-09). They speak at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

Spectrum News previews 250 years of America's independence by highlighting historic sites across America.

Pope Leo XIV, in virtual remarks from Rome, receives the National Constitution Center's Liberty Medal at a ceremony in Philadelphia.

The organization America250 hosts ball drops in New York City's Times Square to mark the country's semiquincentennial.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade, the first in the nation for July 4, 2026.

Mount Rushmore in South Dakota marks America's 250th birthday with a celebration including music, remarks by President Donald Trump, and fireworks.

Philadelphia celebrates America's 250th birthday with the Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade, the largest professionally produced parade in the nation.

As part of its celebration of America's 250th birthday, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, hosts a reading of the Declaration of Independence and a naturalization ceremony for new U.S. citizens.

Denver marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade.

As part of America's 250th birthday celebration, Vice President JD Vance and military officials attend an International Naval Review at the Port of New York and New Jersey.

Freedom 250 hosts Salute to America, a program featuring musical performances, historical narratives, fireworks, and remarks by President Donald Trump and other officials. The event is held on Washington, D.C.'s National Mall.

St. Louis marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade.

The Virginia 250 organization hosts America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together, a national celebration in Colonial Williamsburg featuring musical performances, historical presentations, fireworks, and a drone show.

Washington, D.C. marks America's 250th birthday with an Independence Day parade.

Chicago marks America's 250th birthday with a fireworks display.

Commerce City, Colorado, near Denver, marks America's 250th birthday with a fireworks display.

To mark America's 250th birthday, the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square in Salt Lake City delivers a special performance of patriotic music during its weekly Music & the Spoken Word program.

As part of the nation's 250th birthday celebration, the congressionally mandated America's Time Capsule is buried at Independence Mall in Philadelphia. It will remain sealed until 2276.

Historian and James Garfield biographer C.W. Goodyear reflects on the life and legacy of the 20th U.S. president (March-September 1881). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN tours an exhibit of artifacts that were part of Martha Washington's 1802 estate sale at Mount Vernon.

Historian H.W. Brands reflects on the life and legacy of Chester Arthur, the 21st U.S. president (1881-85). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.

C-SPAN tours the National Archives' Free & Independent Exhibit, which explores the origins and inspiration for the Declaration of Independence.

As part of its celebration of America's 250th birthday, George Washington's Mount Vernon hosts a naturalization ceremony during which dozens of people from around the world become new U.S. citizens.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Gov. Kelly Armstrong (R-ND), historians, and living descendants of Theodore Roosevelt attend the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.

Joe Sullivan of the Delaware Public Archives examines Delaware's role in the American Revolution. He speaks as part of a Tavern Talk historical program in Milton, Delaware.

Author Troy Senik reflects on the life & legacy of President Grover Cleveland (1885-89, 1893-97). His essay is part of a project called In Pursuit, commissioned to mark America's 250th birthday in 2026.