This Day (An America 250 History Show) From Bicentennial to Semiquincentennial: History Under Trump
Jan 11, 2026
Explore the intriguing dynamics of America's 250th birthday planning, now influenced by Trump allies. Delve into the corporate sponsorships, including ties to Bitcoin, fueling this spectacle. Discover how local histories are sidelined, giving rise to competing narratives and regional resistance. Unpack the resurgence of Lost Cause mythology and its impact on politics. Trace the evolution from consensus history to more inclusive narratives amidst current debates about America's identity and the controversial executive order reshaping how history is taught.
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Sponsors Turn History Into Branding
- Corporate and crypto sponsorships have become entwined with America250, including surprising partners like Bitcoin conferences.
- Those sponsorships signal the semi-quincentennial will be used to brand and fundraise beyond traditional civic purposes.
Local History Infrastructure Was Displaced
- The federal takeover hollowed out local advisory councils and grassroots storytelling tied to America250.
- Local projects about farmers, steelworkers, and regional histories risk being sidelined by a centralized, nationalized narrative.
Support Local Counter-Narratives
- Support local and counter-narrative history projects by attending events and donating where possible.
- Show up to amplify stories that challenge the MAGA-centric America250 narrative.
