The United States is proud to celebrate 246 years of independence as a free and democratic nation. Independence and sovereignty are rarely given freely and must be protected and defended. Since declaring independence in 1776, the United States has faced significant challenges over 246 years – a bloody civil war, attacks by foreign powers, internal unrest, terrorism, economic crises, natural disasters, and global pandemics. We have overcome each crisis and became stronger as a nation.
Today Americans celebrate their freedoms and U.S. independence, which have been maintained and defended by millions of soldiers, political leaders, human rights defenders, law enforcement officers, civil society leaders, and ordinary American citizens. The United States continues to support the independence of free nations around the world. We can achieve our full potential as individuals and as a society when we are free to choose our own future.