The United States is commemorating its 250th anniversary with two separate, high-profile celebrations in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. This bifurcation, according to political scientist Matthew Wilson from Southern Methodist University (SMU) underscores a profound absence of a unified national narrative in modern America.
The split celebrations, each with different leadership and visions, symbolize the country’s growing political polarization. Rival groups are promoting fundamentally different interpretations of American history, identity, and patriotism, making what should have been a unifying moment a symbol of division.
The absence of a shared national narrative
Wilson argues that the 250th anniversary should have been an opportunity for Americans of diverse backgrounds to come together and celebrate the nation’s remarkable journey. Instead, it has become a reflection of the deep polarization that characterizes twenty-first-century America.
Historically, major national anniversaries have not reflected this level of institutional or political division. Fifty years ago, during the bicentennial, the nation came together across political lines with various commemorative events and a surge in patriotic sentiment. National pride was not partisan but a collective American sentiment.
The impact of political polarization
In the twenty-first century, however, major partisan gaps in patriotism have emerged. Republicans express pride in the nation regardless of who is in charge, while Democratic patriotism is more conditional, fluctuating with the party in power.
The competing America 250 celebrations are unlikely to strengthen civic engagement, as they appear highly partisan and ideologically charged. Most Americans are expected to disengage from or ignore these events, further deepening the sense of a fractured national identity.
The role of partisan politics in national celebrations
Ideally, a milestone like America’s 250th anniversary should be insulated from partisan politics. However, in today’s political climate, this is virtually impossible. Both President Trump and his opponents have attempted to make the celebration about themselves, which Wilson finds absurd.
The American story is much bigger than any individual leader. Pride in the nation and a willingness to celebrate its achievements should not be contingent on one’s preferred candidate winning the last election. The President should refrain from making a national celebration about himself.
The lasting impact of parallel celebrations
Looking beyond the immediate celebrations, Wilson believes that future generations will view this as a missed opportunity for national reconciliation. The parallel celebrations could have been a chance for people on both sides to find commonality in their visions of America.
Instead, the focus on partisan differences has overshadowed the potential for a shared celebration of the nation’s achievements and a collective commitment to addressing its challenges. The lack of interest in national commonality is a sad reality that underscores the depth of political polarization in America today.
