Over the next couple of years Scotland has a unique opportunity to engage with the United States – to celebrate an historically deep relationship while actively furthering contemporary links. The window for engagement relates to the 250th Anniversary of the birth of the United States that will be observed throughout 2026 and especially in July 2026 in Philadelphia.

On 3 July 1776 in Philadelphia, future President of the United States, John Adams, dipped his pen into his inkwell to compose a letter to his trusted partner and wife, Abigail Adams. As he began to write, he was full of emotion and enthusiasm. In the letter he reflected on the historic moment the Declaration of Independence had been passed in Philadelphia the day prior. Adams had played a vital part.

Of that 2 July passage, Adams wrote to his wife, “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this........

© Herald Scotland