The United States has celebrated major anniversaries of its founding with various events and exhibitions throughout history. Here's an overview of key celebrations:

1876 - Centennial

• Event: Centennial Exposition, Philadelphia
• Focus: Highlighted the industrial and cultural achievements of the United States after 100 years of independence.
• Notable Features:
  • The event showcased groundbreaking inventions like the typewriter and the telephone (Alexander Graham Bell’s invention).
  • Hosted in Fairmount Park, it was the first official World's Fair in the U.S.
  • Celebrated themes of national pride and progress.

1926 - Sesquicentennial (150th Anniversary)

• Event: Sesquicentennial Exposition, Philadelphia
• Focus: Commemorated 150 years of independence.
• Notable Features:
  • A slightly subdued celebration due to economic concerns.
  • Included a replica of the Liberty Bell made from flowers and various cultural events.
  • Attendance and public enthusiasm were lower than anticipated.

1976 - Bicentennial

• Event: Nation-wide celebrations, with a focus on inclusivity and reflecting on U.S. history.
• Focus: Celebrated 200 years of independence, emphasizing both the nation's achievements and its challenges.
• Notable Features:
  • Tall Ships events in New York Harbor, featuring international ships in a parade of sails.
  • The Bicentennial Wagon Train: A symbolic journey of wagons traveling across the country.
  • Celebrations culminated on July 4th, with a focus on patriotism and national unity.
  • Projects like the "Freedom Train," traveling exhibits, and local celebrations across all states were significant.

2026 - America250 (Upcoming)

• Planned Event: Nationwide activities, community initiatives, and cultural commemorations.
• Focus: Honoring the 250th anniversary with themes of democracy, diversity, and shared history.
• Anticipated Features:
  • A broad inclusion of American voices, celebrating diversity and progress.
  • Nationwide and international outreach, including events, digital archives, and community-led initiatives.

Each celebration reflects its era's priorities and societal concerns, showcasing progress while sometimes prompting reflection on challenges in achieving the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. The upcoming America250 is expected to be a broad and inclusive celebration that connects past, present, and future narratives of the United States.

Chinese students did visit the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, marking a fascinating cultural exchange during that historic event. At the time, the United States was beginning to strengthen its ties with China, particularly through trade and education.

Context:

• The Chinese Educational Mission (CEM): Established in 1872, the CEM sent young Chinese students to study in the United States. This mission was part of China's effort to modernize by learning Western technologies and systems. Many of these students were in New England by the time of the Centennial.

Chinese Presence at the Expo:

1. The Chinese Pavilion:

   • China participated in the exposition with a dedicated pavilion.
   • The exhibit showcased traditional Chinese art, textiles, porcelain, and other cultural artifacts.
   • Visitors were fascinated by Chinese craftsmanship, which contrasted sharply with the industrial focus of many Western exhibits.

2. Chinese Students' Visit:

   • A group of Chinese students from the CEM visited the Exposition as part of their exposure to Western culture and technology.
   • They were reportedly impressed by the technological advancements displayed, particularly machinery and innovations that underscored the industrial revolution.

Significance:

• Cultural Exchange: The students' visit symbolized the cross-cultural learning and exchanges beginning to take place between China and the West during the late 19th century.
• Influence on Modernization: These students later played key roles in China's modernization efforts, leveraging the knowledge and experience they gained in the United States.

The 1876 Centennial Exposition served not only as a celebration of America's first century but also as a platform for international engagement, where the presence of Chinese students and exhibits highlighted the growing global interconnectivity of the era.