The US Bicentennial and Semiquincentennial Explained

Join us for a special episode as we rewind to 1976 and the United States Bicentennial! Remember the patriotic fervor, the tall ships sailing into New York Harbor, the Bicentennial quarters, and the widespread sense of national pride? We'll delve into what those celebrations truly meant to Americans at a time of significant social and political change. How did the nation reflect on its first 200 years, and what hopes and anxieties colored the vision for the future?

Then, we'll fast-forward to the imminent 250th anniversary in 2026 – the Semiquincentennial. With just a year to go, preparations are well underway across the country. What lessons can we draw from the Bicentennial as we approach this new milestone? How has America changed in the past 50 years, and what does this upcoming anniversary mean for a diverse and evolving nation? We'll explore the themes and initiatives shaping the 2026 commemorations, from historical reflection to a forward-looking vision for the next quarter-millennium. Tune in as we bridge the past and the future of the American story.

Drop us a quick text and we’ll reply in the next episode!

Support the show

Dirt Nap City is the podcast about the most interesting dead people in history.
Subscribe and listen to learn about people you've heard of, but don't know much about.
Someday we'll all live in Dirt Nap City, so you should probably go ahead and meet the neighbors!