The 250th anniversary of American independence is being commemorated with various events and exhibits across the country. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History has a broader exhibit called ‘In Pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness’ that showcases artifacts ranging from a Revolutionary War-era gunboat to a 1970 Earth Day flag.

Competing Celebrations

However, the anniversary celebrations are being marred by competing events and rival groups. Freedom 250, an organization aligned with the White House, has come to rival America 250, a bipartisan group founded by Congress a decade ago. The different groups add to a sense that even a milestone anniversary can become the source of division.

Trump himself is planning to speak at ‘The Great American State Fair’ on the National Mall, while America 250 is holding a concert in Los Angeles hosted by Queen Latifah and featuring performances from Chris Stapleton and The Smashing Pumpkins.

Historical Context

Historically, presidents have used the July Fourth anniversary to emphasize commonality and unity. In 1986, President Ronald Reagan spoke from New York Harbor, and in 1976, President Gerald Ford delivered an address from Independence Hall in Philadelphia. However, Trump tends to place more focus on himself, and his approach to the anniversary celebrations is being seen as a reflection of this.

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