This historic proclamation, issued on July 3, 2026, serves as the formal celebration of the United States Semicentennial—the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
It is a sweeping narrative that traces the "Great American Adventure" from a small collection of colonies to the world’s preeminent superpower, while laying out a vision for a "New American Golden Age."
The proclamation begins by honoring the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence and the "noble Patriots" who pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor. It identifies the Declaration as the "single greatest force for virtue, peace, and prosperity" in human history, rooted in the "sacred truths" of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
The text recounts the defining eras of the American story:
The Revolution: Highlights the "grit and adventure" of Washington’s troops from Lexington to Yorktown.
Expansion & Industry: Describes the westward movement, the preservation of the Union during the Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution (steel, oil, and electricity) that turned America into an economic titan.
The 20th Century: Honors the defeat of global tyrannies in two world wars and the technological leaps of the Space Age and the digital revolution.
The proclamation connects the legacy of the Founders to the specific policy goals of the 2026 administration:
Frontiers of Discovery: Recommits to returning Americans to the Moon and planting the flag on Mars. It also targets dominance in Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Discovery.
Sovereignty and Security: Emphasizes restoring territorial integrity (border security), reclaiming sovereignty, and restoring "law and order" to American streets.
Energy and Wealth: Pledges to unleash "boundless energy beneath our soil" to expand national abundance.
Culture of Life: Explicitly vows to "protect the innocent starting at life’s very first moment."
Central to the document is the concept of the "American Spirit"—defined by faith in God, fierce love of family, and a tireless devotion to hard work. The President gives "thanks to Almighty God" for the providence that has guided the nation through "every trial and triumph."
President Trump formally designates July 4, 2026, as the 250th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Declaration of Independence. He calls on all Americans to observe the day with ceremony and pride, honoring the "glorious heritage" of the Republic.
This proclamation is designed to be a unifying national document for the Semicentennial. It frames the administration's modern "America First" policies not as new ideas, but as the natural continuation of the journey started in Philadelphia 250 years ago. It suggests that by returning to the "timeless values" of the Founders, the United States is entering its greatest era yet.