250 Years of Independence: 50 Facts About the USA

Tomorrow marks 250 years of American independence, commemorating the date the 13 original colonies broke away from British rule on July 4, 1776. As the nation celebrates its founding and the liberties secured by generations of Americans, a look at all 50 states reveals a remarkable tapestry of ingenuity, freedom, and unmatched American greatness. From Iowa's everyday innovations to the birthplace of the Republican Party, here are 50 facts that make the United States exceptional.

How did Iowa change the world with sliced bread?

When Americans talk about the greatest thing since sliced bread, they are talking about Iowa. The bread slicing machine was invented in Iowa in 1928, bringing a practical, world-changing innovation right out of the American heartland. It is a perfect example of how everyday Iowans have shaped the way the world lives today, proving that the best solutions often come from common-sense thinking and hard work.

Where was the Republican Party founded?

America's political heritage is deeply tied to its states. Wisconsin is not only the fictional hometown of Barbie; it is also the state where the Republican Party was founded. Born out of a commitment to individual liberty and free markets, the party's roots in the Midwest reflect the values that continue to drive conservative leadership today. New Hampshire captures the American spirit with its license plates bearing the slogan