America at 250: The Arc of Global Influence
Over the last 250 years, America has shaped the world—and the world has shaped it.
The United States finds itself in a world that bears little resemblance to the one in which the Declaration of Independence was signed. The transformation of military power, technology, and the international economy have had consequential impacts on US social and economic life, and on America's global influence.
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the Chicago Council on Global Affairs will explore the historical arc of the nation's understanding of itself and its global role. Through a series of high-level dialogues, expert perspectives, public and private programs, and a signature conference, the Council will engage with the critical questions that will define America's future: How should the United States leverage its capabilities and influence in a more competitive, multipolar world? In what ways will US technological power reshape society? And how might US leadership charter the nation into its next chapter?
The American Dream has been at the heart of America’s global influence—its origins, its evolution, and how it is understood both at home and abroad. To that end, the Council will also examine the global significance of US immigration practices, the role of the military and public service in American life, the changing character of democracy, the fluctuations in foreign policy, the influence of public opinion, and more.
We invite you to learn more and join us.
Events
What is the trajectory of US power and influence? How might demographic changes influence the future of US foreign policy? In what ways will technological change radically alter how the United States engages with the world? What would it mean should America abandon its position as a Pacific power? And how would it manage its strategic relationship with China?
The Council’s America at 250 Global Forum will convene leading thinkers, historians, political scientists, journalists, and policymakers from around the world to explore these questions and more at this critical moment in time. Participants will examine America’s evolving position in the international order, the global impacts of past and present policy decisions, the lingering aftershocks of US leadership decisions, and other key issues and ideas shaping the nation’s future.
Details and formal announcement to come.
Global Economy Roundtable Series
From our Experts
Council experts share how changes in American leadership, alliances, and global engagement shaped the nation’s first 250 years—and what the current moment reveals about the next.
"While the 250th is certainly a time to celebrate (birthdays matter), a national conversation about America’s next steps is essential."
From In Its 250th Year, the US Has the Opportunity to Lead
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Leslie Vinjamuri
President & Chief Executive Officer, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
"The American people will prosper and see further significant gains in wealth as other nations rise and climb toward their potential."
From The World’s Fortunes Are Not a Zero-Sum Game
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Lord Jim O'Neill
Distinguished Nonresident Fellow, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
"Looking ahead to America’s next century of statecraft, alliances must be reimagined to reflect new realities."
From The World American Alliances Were Built for No Longer Exists
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Ambassador Julianne Smith
Distinguished Nonresident Fellow, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
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