As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, many Americans are reflecting on the nation’s history and its founding ideals. According to a new Gallup poll, about 8 in 10 Americans believe the signers of the Declaration of Independence would be disappointed with how the country has turned out.

A Nation’s Birthday

Despite this, many Americans are still proud of their country and its achievements. About 4 in 10 U.S. adults feel “proud” about the country’s 250th anniversary, while roughly 3 in 10 say “excited” describes their emotions. Duane Mitchell, a 78-year-old veteran in Montana, is one of those who is excited to celebrate. He plans to drive his restored 1954 Chevrolet pickup in local parades, accompanied by American flags and a decorative eagle.

Mitchell’s enthusiasm is shared by many older Americans, with about 6 in 10 saying they feel proud about the nation’s anniversary. However, younger Americans and Democrats are more likely to feel conflicted or indifferent about celebrating the country. Laura Davis, a 44-year-old progressive liberal in Chicago, believes that while there are things to celebrate, the country’s reputation is being damaged by the current administration’s actions.

Founding Ideals

Despite the mixed emotions, most Americans believe the country has succeeded in achieving its founding ideals. About 7 in 10 U.S. adults say that America has succeeded “a great deal” or “a fair amount” in achieving the ideals for which the country was founded. This view is shared by a majority of Democrats, independents, and Republicans, although Republicans are especially likely to say the country has succeeded.

As the country marks this milestone anniversary, many Americans are also thinking about the sacrifices made by those who have fought to protect the nation’s freedoms. Mitchell, who was drafted into the Vietnam War, wants Americans to remember the men and women who have given their lives to protect the freedoms they have today. “It was a sacrifice,” he said. “The most important thing about the celebration is understanding that freedom is not free, and it never will be free, so you need to celebrate that.”

Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.