As we approach the 250th anniversary of the birth of our nation in 2026, Americans are given a rare moment to pause and reflect on the extraordinary journey of the United States. From its founding in 1776, this country has endured wars, depressions, political divisions, and cultural upheavals, yet it has remained a beacon of liberty, opportunity, and self-government. Few nations have lasted so long while preserving the ideals of freedom and democracy in such a turbulent world.
Still, history reminds us that no nation is guaranteed survival. Empires and republics of the past, often celebrated in their own time as enduring and unconquerable, eventually collapsed under the weight of division, corruption, or complacency. As the United States marks two and a half centuries, the question before us is whether we will learn from history and renew our commitment to unity, integrity, and self-sacrifice—or whether we will allow discord, cynicism, and neglect to weaken the foundations of our republic.
The survival of the United States will not depend on external enemies nearly as much as it will depend on the character of its people. If we remain faithful to the principles of liberty, equality, justice, and civic responsibility that animated the founding generation, then our nation can endure for centuries more. But if we lose our sense of common purpose, our respect for the rule of law, and our belief in one another as fellow Americans, then our decline may come far sooner than we expect.
The 250th anniversary is not only a celebration—it is a call to action. It is an invitation for every citizen to recommit to the responsibilities of democracy, to strengthen families and communities, to build trust across differences, and to place the good of the nation above selfish ambition. Whether the United States continues to survive and thrive will depend, as it always has, not on fate, but on us.
The assassination of Charlie Kirk stands as a beacon to this very thing. Anyone who watched the memorial service on Sunday, September 21, got a taste of what is required to move this country in the right direction. Faith in God, family, and love for the foundational principles on which this nation was founded all fit together to make America the exception to the 250 year rule.
We need to get back to the Judeo-Christian principles and values that enabled the United States of America to become the greatest nation in the history of the world. As we bring Americans together across all racial and cultural lines, we truly can be “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all!”
David Barton is the Founder of Wall Builders, a national pro-family organization that presents America’s forgotten history and heroes, with an emphasis on our moral, religious, and constitutional heritage.
WallBuilders is a name taken from the Old Testament writings of Nehemiah, who led a grassroots movement to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and restore its strength and honor. In the same way, WallBuilders seeks to energize the grassroots today to become involved in strengthening their communities, states, and nation.
David is the author of numerous best-selling books, largely based on his research from his massive library of original, historical writings. He is a sought-after speaker, bringing the truth of America’s history to churches, civic and military groups, schools and universities, and community events. David is also a frequent guest on a number of national media programs, and is a host of a daily radio show, The WallBuilders Show.
Because of his exhaustive research he is sought after as an expert in historical and constitutional issues. He serves as a consultant to state and federal legislators, has participated in several cases at the US Supreme Court, was involved in the development of the History/Social Studies standards for states such as Texas and California, and has helped produce history textbooks now used in schools across the nation.
A national news organization has described him as “America’s historian,” and Time Magazine called him “a hero to millions – including some powerful politicians.” In fact, Newsmax named him as one of America’s top 100 most influential evangelicals, and Time Magazine named him as one of America’s Top 25.
David has received numerous national and international awards, including Who’s Who in Education, DAR’s Medal of Honor, and the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. His work in media has merited several Angel Awards, Telly Awards, and the Dove Foundation Seal of Approval.
David and his wife Cheryl reside in Aledo, Texas, they have three grown, married children (Damaris, Timothy, and Stephen), and five grandchildren.
Please join us for this stimulating, informative conversation.
