Reflecting on America’s 250th Birthday and the American Dream

On July 4th, Americans celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation. For 250 years, the United States has welcomed people seeking freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights. This allure remains strong as many aspire to achieve the American Dream.

The idea of the American Dream was described in 1931 by historian James Truslow Adams in “The Epic of America.” It envisions a society where anyone can pursue their ambitions, limited only by their abilities. During the Great Depression, this promise provided hope, and it still does today.

Examples abound of individuals fulfilling this dream. A cab driver from Egypt, whose son is now pursuing a master’s degree, and a doorman from China, whose daughter became a doctor, reflect the journey many immigrants undertake. Immigrants from Cuba, Yemen, and other nations cherish newfound freedoms in the U.S., puzzled by those who undervalue opportunities here.

Some political figures argue the American Dream is fading. Figures like Bernie Sanders suggest systemic barriers prevent upward mobility. His “Oligarchy Tour” in 2025 claimed the pursuit has become a “nightmare,” with billionaires allegedly subverting accountability. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has echoed these sentiments, suggesting that right-wing politics work against middle-class Americans.

Such views influence public opinion. A recent Gallup poll for the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream noted a decline in optimism about achieving the American Dream, dropping from 51% to 46% over a year.

Yet, optimism for the American Dream persists, spurred by stories of entrepreneurial success. Examples include Elon Musk of Tesla, who moved from South Africa, and Sergey Brin of Google, who emigrated from Russia. These individuals saw the U.S. as a land of great opportunity.

Ordinary Americans, too, achieve their dreams. The New York Post, in collaboration with the Milken Institute, shares stories of those rising through hard work. Matt Proulx, of Hasbro, grew up in a large family and demonstrates how love and support can transform lives.

Education, however, remains a critical barrier for many, especially minority groups. Political failures in education policy hinder access to the Dream, sparking frustration.

The debate about the American Dream’s accessibility veers into political territory. Critics suggest that undermining hope feeds a push for larger governmental control, while independent and empowered citizens are less reliant on such systems.

As America marks this significant milestone with celebrations, the focus remains on preserving values that have made it a beacon of hope. Whether America will endure another 250 years depends on adhering to its foundational principles of hard work and opportunity.

Liz Peek is a Fox News contributor and a former Wall Street firm partner. She writes for The Hill and more. Follow her at Twitter.