One of my earlier memories is being 5 years old at the bicentennial celebration on July 4th 1976. My earliest and oldest friend Matthew and I had bonded in kindergarten riding the school bus home and tapping out Yankee Doodle Dandy on our lunch boxes as we rode to our bus stops One Stop apart. There was a feeling of unification and America that was palpable almost akin to the day after 9/11. I worry about the state and future of our country.
A 250-year celebration is called a “Sestercentennial”. This term is derived from the Latin words “sestercenti,” meaning “250,” and “annus,” meaning “year.” Sestercentennial is used to describe the 250th anniversary of an event or founding, and it’s a relatively rare and unique term, as not many countries or institutions reach this milestone.
The 250th anniversary of July 4th in 2026 will likely be a significant event in American history, but whether it will have the same Gestalt (a German word meaning “shape” or “form”) as the bicentennial in 1976 is uncertain. The bicentennial was a unique moment in American history, marked by widespread celebrations, parades, and a sense of national unity.
Several factors contributed to the Gestalt of the bicentennial:
- Post-Vietnam War and Watergate era: The country was seeking a sense of unity and renewal.
- Cold War: The bicentennial coincided with a period of relative détente with the Soviet Union, allowing for a focus on domestic celebrations.
- Cultural and social changes: The 1970s were a time of significant cultural and social shifts, and the bicentennial became a symbol of American identity and tradition.
In contrast, the 250th anniversary will take place in a different historical context:
- Political polarization: The country is currently experiencing significant political divisions, which might impact the level of national unity and celebration.
- Global events: The world is facing various challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions, which might shift the focus away from solely domestic celebrations.
- Changing demographics and cultural landscape: America’s population and cultural landscape have undergone significant changes since 1976, which could influence the nature of the celebrations and the Gestalt of the event.
While the 250th anniversary will undoubtedly be a significant event, its Gestalt will likely be shaped by the unique circumstances and challenges of the time, making it distinct from the bicentennial celebrations in 1976.