Opinion

America's next 250 years begin in the classroom

Young Americans must learn our past to secure our future

By Norton Rainey Fox News

Published July 4, 2026 12:58pm EDT

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Military flyover, Parade of Sail mark America’s 250th birthday in New York City

Fox News’ Danamarie McNicholl reports on the military flyover and Parade of Sail on the Hudson River celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Ret. Lt. Col. Darin Gaub provides analysis on ‘America’s Newsroom.’

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As America marks its 250th anniversary, we have an opportunity to reflect on one of history’s greatest experiments.

The Founders established a nation unlike any the world had ever seen, not built on inherited privilege, but on the belief that every person possesses God-given, inalienable rights. They believed that free people would accomplish more than concentrated political power ever could. That vision transformed the world.

The United States has lifted more people into prosperity than any other nation. No country has produced more innovation. America has consistently led the world in charitable giving, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and scientific advancement. Millions have come because the American Dream is unique: the freedom to build a better life through opportunity.

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Yet today, something has shifted in our national outlook.

A growing number of young Americans are skeptical of capitalism and more confident in government solutions. That should concern every American, not because government has no role, but because a free society depends on citizens who understand why liberty, limited government, personal responsibility, and free enterprise have produced more opportunity........

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