AMERICA 250
Two hundred and fifty years in the making.
Why 250 Matters
Two hundred and fifty years after the Declaration of Independence, the American experiment continues. The questions first confronted in the Revolution—about liberty, self-government, equality, and national purpose—still shape the nation today.
America Two Fifty explores that story through original films, historic artwork, primary documents, and narrative history, tracing how the United States was founded, tested, and continually renewed.
Foundations of the American Experiment
The Revolution
(1765–1783)
The struggle for independence transformed thirteen colonies into a new nation founded on the ideals of liberty, self-government, and individual rights.
The Constitution
(1787–1789)
Delegates gathered in Philadelphia to create a new framework of government, establishing a Constitution that continues to guide the American republic.
The Young Republic
(1789–1824)
America's first presidents established enduring precedents while the young republic tested its institutions, expanded westward, and defined its national identity.
The Republic Evolves
The Expanding Nation
(1824–1865)
Westward expansion, reform, slavery, and the growing tensions that would ultimately divide the Union.
The Living Republic
(1865–1919)
Reconstruction, industrial growth, immigration, reform, and the emergence of the United States as a modern nation.
An American Century
(1919–2001)
World wars, economic transformation, civil rights, the Cold War, and America's expanding role in the world.
A New America
(2001–Present)
The challenges of the twenty-first century are different from those faced by earlier generations, but the enduring work of preserving liberty, expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and shaping the future continues.
History is more than a record of the past. It is a conversation between generations.
America Two Fifty invites you to explore that conversation—one chapter at a time.