The enduring promise of America
The United States marked its 250th anniversary amid a notable decline in patriotic sentiment, especially among younger and more educated citizens. Gallup data shows only about 40% of Americans express pride in their country, with willingness to defend it falling to roughly two in five, a figure still higher than many European nations. The article attributes this trend to factors such as a progressive‑focused education system, historical illiteracy, and growing political polarization that have dampened traditional celebrations.
- ▪Gallup polls indicate that American pride has dropped to a historic low of around 40%, with the willingness to fight for the country falling to just under 40% of respondents.
- ▪By 2022, only 13% of U.S. students were proficient in American history, reflecting an education system that emphasizes race and gender over civic knowledge.
- ▪The decline in patriotic sentiment is most pronounced among younger, more educated Americans, many of whom view the nation as a 'dying empire led by bad people.'
- ▪Celebrations of the 250th anniversary have been scaled back, with events like New York’s Times Square festivities restricted and Long Beach’s Fourth of July fireworks cancelled.
- ▪Political polarization and distrust of government have intensified, with figures such as Donald Trump cited as contributing to the erosion of traditional patriotic expressions.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
i Getty Long-read The enduring promise of America At 250 years old, the US remains a nation committed to people’s freedom. dataLayer.push({ event: 'author', author: "Joel Kotkin" }) Joel Kotkin Columnist 30th June 2026 Share Topics Long-reads USA Want unlimited, ad-free access? Become a spiked supporter. ‘USA is a slice of the continent… USA is the world’s greatest river valley fringed with mountains and hills. USA is a set of big-mouthed officials with too many bank accounts. USA is a lot of men buried in their uniforms in Arlington Cemetery. USA is the letters at the end of the address when you are away from home. But mostly USA is the speech of the people.’ From USA, by John Dos Passos, 1930.
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