Friday briefing: The US at 250: who gets to tell the story?
Summary
The United States celebrated its 250th birthday amid discussions about how its history is remembered and presented. Recent actions by President Donald Trump’s administration have removed plaques acknowledging enslaved people at a historical site in Philadelphia, sparking criticism and efforts by local activists to highlight this part of America’s story.Key Facts
- The US turned 250 years old on July 4, 2026.
- The Declaration of Independence was adopted in Philadelphia in 1776.
- George Washington lived in Philadelphia with nine enslaved people who worked in his residence.
- Pennsylvania passed the Gradual Abolition Act, which set conditions to eventually end slavery.
- Plaques at the President’s House acknowledging the enslaved people were removed in January 2026 by order of President Trump’s executive action.
- Local activists have placed temporary signs to explain why the plaques were removed.
- There is ongoing debate about how US history, especially the role of slavery, is told and remembered.
- This removal of plaques has been seen by some as ignoring the full and difficult parts of American history.
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