Reflecting on 250 Years of American Independence
The year 2026 will kick off the 250th anniversary of the United States, a remarkable milestone tracing back to when the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. This act was truly foundational, igniting a spirit of freedom that established our nation.
About two decades ago, I found myself captivated by the true tales from the founding period. My editor at AMG Publishing suggested I write a book as part of the “Battlefields and Blessings” series. After they had already tackled the Civil War in a daily devotional, I was encouraged to explore a different conflict, maybe the American Revolution.
So, I dived in. While pregnant, I unexpectedly went into premature labor and ended up on bed rest, which surprisingly offered me ample time to research and write until I welcomed my second son.
Plans for the 250th Anniversary
As I began my study, doubts crept in. Was George Washington really that significant? Could the 1776 narrative resonate today? How could we relate to people from such a distant past?
But then I had a revelation: despite technological changes, the essence of humanity—our need for love, acceptance, and freedom—remains unchanged, whether we travel in Teslas or horse-drawn carriages.
Learning about the American Revolution profoundly altered my understanding of this country. Although I had worked as a White House official under President George W. Bush, I was humbled by the insights of the Founding Fathers.
Early on, I decided to prioritize original accounts—letters, diaries, and firsthand reports—rather than relying on modern historians. I wanted to form my own opinions without influence.
A New Perspective on Washington
Rather than seeing Washington as overrated, I grew to admire his leadership qualities deeply. His determination and humility were critical in securing our independence. Washington sought no personal glory, placing the needs of the military and the people before his own interests.
In an interesting twist, Washington himself evolved over time. He began as a slave owner but grappled with the implications of slavery during and after his presidency. It was illegal to free slaves in Virginia for most of his life, yet upon retirement, he chose to stop purchasing and selling them. His will, published after his death in 1799, made it clear: he had freed his slaves.
Why should Washington and the events of 2026 matter? Alarmingly, only 13% of eighth graders in our nation have a grasp on American history. This statistic is troubling and indicative of a larger issue.
Our culture is undernourished by recent narratives that vilify historical figures, leading to defacement or elimination of their legacies in the name of political correctness.
The Future of the American Dream
We are yearning for a healthy understanding of our history and culture. Nobody should feel hopeless about the future based on the past. Instead, we must present history truthfully and compellingly.
My hope for fellow Americans this coming year is simple: engage with our nation’s founding story. Perhaps make it a New Year’s resolution to learn about the American Revolution. Watch documentaries, visit museums, and read books on the subject. I’ve authored nearly 20 books, four specifically focusing on this era, and shared various videos through my channels geared towards educating about America’s anniversary.
One film that encapsulates the spirit of freedom is “The American Miracle.” This powerful documentary-drama explores miraculous instances during the American Revolution, highlighting the heroic contributions of Black Americans. I’m grateful to have participated in it.
A Call to Unity
We should remember Washington’s farewell address in 1796, where he urged Americans to view their differences as minor obstacles to unity. He advocated for an awareness of our shared struggles and successes in the quest for independence.
He emphasized the right to love our country, regardless of our differences. If he were here today, I believe he would deliver a similar message, reminding us to honor the seeds of freedom sown 250 years ago. These seeds have withstood various trials and tribulations, growing and flourishing along the way. Our goal isn’t merely to celebrate but to cultivate an enduring love for our culture, allowing future generations to commemorate this legacy 250 years from now.
