Latest | America at 250

How America Tells Its Story: A Conversation with Lonnie Bunch

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America at 250

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.

Speakers on the Council's stage
Ana Miyares Photography

We the People: The US Constitution in Today's World

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America at 250

As the US reflects on 250 years, Tom Ginsburg and Aziz Huq join Leigha Crout to discuss the role of the Constitution, how it compares with other democracies, and how it functions today.

Speakers on the Council's stage.

Citizens and Soldiers: Can the Military Remain Apolitical?

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America at 250

Kori Schake and Leslie Vinjamuri discuss the changing relationship between America's citizens and armed forces and what that means for the nation's defense.

Leslie Vinjamuri and Kori Schake on the Council Stage
Ana Miyares Photography

At the Water's Edge: Foreign Policy, Polarization, and the American Public

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America at 250

Craig Kafura, Sarah Maxey, and Gerard Baker discuss findings from the 2025 Chicago Council Survey, highlighting where Americans are divided—and where consensus still exists—on the US role in the world.

Gerard Baker, Sarah Maxey, and Craig Kafura on the Council stage
Ana Miyares Photography

The Future of Alliances in a Changing World

PAST EVENT VIDEO
America at 250

Leslie Vinjamuri speaks with Ambassador Julianne Smith about how US alliances are navigating new pressures and what this means for the future of global partnerships.

Julianne Smith on the Council Stage
Ana Miyares Photography