Every Fourth of July is special. It marks the birth of the United States of America—an extraordinary moment when a group of determined colonists pledged their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor” to declare independence from the most powerful monarchy in the world. But this year’s celebration is not just another birthday. It marks the beginning of the countdown to America’s 250th anniversary—an incredible milestone for the world’s longest-standing constitutional democracy.
In just one year, our nation will celebrate two and a half centuries of freedom, self-government, and resilience. That makes this July Fourth not just a moment to reflect, but a moment to prepare. A time to remember why we celebrate in the first place—and why it still matters.
America didn’t begin as a nation of privilege or inherited titles. It began as an idea: that government exists by the consent of the governed, and that liberty belongs to the people—not to a king. The very first step toward achieving that liberty was military: citizen soldiers—farmers, blacksmiths, printers—who picked up arms so we might never again live under royal rule.
That’s why it's so ironic that recent protesters chose to label their demonstration against the “Military 250” parade as No Kings Day. I can’t think of a more fitting reminder that we already had our No Kings Day—on July 4, 1776. The protestors are about 250 years too late. Our founders resolved this by establishing a government with three branches to ensure balance of power.
Our founders were the original protestors. But their protest came with a price. When they signed the Declaration of Independence, they did so knowing they might hang for it. They weren’t tweeting hashtags or blocking traffic; they were putting their lives on the line for a cause greater than themselves. Are today’s protesters willing to do the same for their country?
This isn’t to say that protest has no place in our republic. It does—peaceful protest is a right guaranteed by the very Constitution our founders made possible. But if we lose sight of the values and sacrifices that made those rights possible in the first place, we risk weakening the very foundation of our freedom.
As we approach America’s 250th birthday, let’s renew our understanding of that foundation. Let’s teach our children the stories of courage and conviction that shaped this country. Let’s celebrate not just the fireworks, but the faith, fortitude, and founding principles that gave birth to the American experiment.
At the National American History and Founders Month Organization, we believe history isn’t something to apologize for—it’s something to learn from, honor, and build upon. That’s especially true as we prepare for this once-in-a-generation milestone. The road to 250 began with a declaration. Let’s make sure it continues with dedication.
This Fourth of July, let’s remember who we are: not subjects of a king, but citizens of a free republic—still standing, still striving, still independent.
Dr. Jennifer London is the founder and president of the National American History and Founders Month Organization (NAHFMO).
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