A US Independence Day shrouded in vainglory

July 3, 2026 — 4:32pm

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As the nation of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness celebrates its 250th anniversary of independence, the United States today seems both shining and decaying under President Donald Trump’s relentless self-aggrandisement.

When, in 1776, America declared its independence from British rule, it was a bold and courageous act that gave birth to an idea unlike any the world had ever seen: that people have the right to govern themselves through democratic representation and constitutional law, and without a ruling class.

Given such a noble achievement, it is uncomfortable to watch Trump subvert a patriotic moment honouring democracy and nationhood into a garish political........

© The Sydney Morning Herald