As the world congratulates the United States on its 250th anniversary, a new survey reveals that millions of citizens are unaware of what the Fourth of July is commemorated. The contrast between international recognition and internal ignorance reflects one of the deepest debates about the country's national identity.

In the midst of parades, fireworks and official events for the 250th anniversary of the United States, the country received congratulatory messages from leaders from different regions of the world, including historical allies and even some governments with which it maintains diplomatic tensions.

World leaders highlight 250 years of the US

Leaders and international representatives took advantage of the date to recognize the historical importance of the United States and the role it has played in world politics.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, stated that the Declaration of Independence gave rise to “a nation founded on the ideals of freedom and the pursuit of happiness”, in addition to highlighting that the transatlantic alliance has been built on shared values.

Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV also sent a special message to the American people.

“This anniversary is an invitation not only to celebrate the extraordinary trajectory of the nation, but also to reflect on the responsibilities that the sons and daughters of this country have among themselves and with the generations who will inherit the nation that is being forged today.”

The president of Poland, Karol Nawrocki, also sent congratulations; the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky; the president of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed; and even the president of Russia, Vladimir Putin, who wished the American people “happiness and prosperity.”

Almost half of Americans do not know what is celebrated on the 4th of July

However, while congratulations came from different parts of the planet, a survey by the Cato Institute showed a different reality within the country itself.

The study, conducted among 2,253 American adults, found that only 53% correctly identified that July 4 commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence of 1776. In contrast, 46% admitted not knowing what is celebrated on that day.

The results are even more striking among young people: 61% of Generation Z responded that they did not know the historical origin of the holiday.

The survey also revealed that 58% of participants could not explain the main purpose of the American Constitution and 57% did not know the reasons why the thirteen colonies declared their independence from Great Britain.

National pride, but concern for the future

Despite this historical ignorance, the feeling of belonging remains high. 86% of those surveyed said they were grateful to be American.

However, the survey also reflected concerns about the direction of the country: 60% believe that the United States has moved away from the principles on which it was founded and 56% fear that it may no longer be a free nation in the next 50 years.

The main concerns mentioned were corruption, the concentration of power and the weakening of knowledge about the country's founding values.