As America approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, America is struggling to define its identity and purpose due to how we understand our past and envision our future. What was once a straightforward celebration of national pride has evolved into a complex dialogue about inclusion, historical truth, and competing visions of patriotism. Beverly Gage from Yale University emphasizes how this semiquincentennial presents both an opportunity and a challenge to forge a meaningful commemoration that honors both America's achievements and its ongoing struggles for justice