'If You Can Keep It': The United States At 250

On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. President Donald Trump kicked off the countdown to the anniversary at a rally in Iowa – right as Congress passed his sweeping domestic policy bill. But how has this country's identity changed in 250 years? And what innovations – in science, technology, and democracy – have led us to this moment? In this installment of If You Can Keep It, we discuss what can we learn about the future of American innovation and democracy through its past. Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Connect with us. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a . Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy