America at 250 logo with the Statue of Liberty in the background

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 the America at 250 Global Forum, the Council will engage with the critical questions that will define America's future.

Events

US President Barack Obama, right, shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, western Japan, as Obama became the first sitting U.S. president to visit the site of the world's first atomic bomb attack.
May
5
Carolyn Kaster / AP
Hybrid EVENT America at 250
Ruti Teitel and Leslie Vinjamuri discuss how American presidents have used tools of justice and reconciliation to address historical harms and advance peace abroad. Register Now
Walter Isaacson speaking in red tie, in front of light grey background
May
18
Carlos Osorio / AP
Hybrid EVENT America at 250
Walter Isaacson, in conversation with Max Boot, discusses his new book and what the Declaration of Independence's most famous words mean for America as it marks its 250th anniversary. Register Now
America at 250 Global Forum logo
Jun
18
The Council's America at 250 Global Forum will convene high-level policymakers, world-class scholars and experts, business leaders, and influential thought leaders to reflect on America’s past and inform its future.

"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 headshot Leslie Vinjamuri President & Chief Executive Officer, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
High School Essay Competition
America at 250 High School Essay Competition The Council is inviting high school juniors and seniors across the Midwest to weigh in on a defining question: As the US marks its 250th anniversary, how do you see the Midwest advancing America's global engagement in the next generation? Submissions are due by April 26, 2026.

Subscribe to the Council's weekly Global Insight newsletter for the latest on the America at 250 initiative.

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Past Event Video

PAST EVENT VIDEO America at 250
Speakers on the Council's stage Speakers on the Council's stage
Ana Miyares Photography
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Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch and The HistoryMakers Founder and President Julieanna Richardson reflect on how America’s history continues to shape the nation at 250.

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