Opinion

I've been to 45 countries and all 50 states. Here are 5 things that make America great

No other nation matches America's faith, freedom, diversity and endless liberty

By Pastor Rick McDaniel Fox News

Published June 19, 2026 5:00am EDT

Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google

close

Video

Inside the America 250 time capsule

Engineers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) build the America 250 time capsule, slated to open in 2276. Fox News' David Spunt reports for 'Special Report.'

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

On Saturday, July 4, the United States of America celebrates our Semiquincentennial. We have been an independent republic for 250 years. That is a long time but not for certain countries. Egypt, India and Greece have existed for thousands of years longer than America.

But 250 years is still a long time. And one where we have had the same form of government our entire existence. Something that cannot be said for many other countries across the world. And our Constitution has significantly influenced the development of constitutions of various other countries.

I’ve had the opportunity to visit every state in America. And I have traveled to six continents and visited 45 countries around the world. This has given me a broad perspective on the uniqueness of America. And what it is that makes us truly special.

Vibrant faith

NEW DIRECTOR'S CUT OF 2024 ‘REAGAN’ BIOPIC WILL RETURN TO THEATERS FOR AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

America is a very religious nation. The interest in faith is greater than in many other Western nations. Church attendance is especially high. Christianity has enormous influence over virtually every aspect of American life. You can hardly watch an awards show or interview of an athlete without hearing about God.

........

© Fox News