As we mark America's 250th anniversary this year, we invite you to explore our curated collections of literature and film. Featuring everything from American classics, historical narratives and biographies to contemporary fiction, culinary traditions, and movies, these lists celebrate the powerful stories that have defined the American experience.
Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
As we celebrate the 250th of America, below is a list of fiction contemporary and classics that shaped our nation.
This July 4th will be the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence; check out these films to experience the many stories of the events that have shaped this nation.
American food from colonial times onward.
Biographies of America's Founding Fathers
Podcast
The Tiny Book Club returns for a special America 250 podcast. Ethan, Anne, and Maggie talk about books related to the 250th anniversary of the United States, including Democracy Awakening by Heather Cox Richardson, Migration and the Origins of American Citizenship by Anna O. Law, Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke, and more. Listen below.
Looking for more ways to celebrate America 250?
Check out our We the People: 250 program series.
Inside the Obama Presidential Center
Thursday, June 11, 7-8:30 PM • Zoom
Explore how presidential history is preserved and shared at the Obama Presidential Center with inaugural Director Kenvi Philips. Learn how the first fully digital Presidential Library connects people to records, stories, and the ongoing work of democracy.
TED Democracy Live
Saturday, June 13, 10 AM-4:30 PM • Multipurpose Room
Explore the future of democracy through 15+ original TED Talks from bold thinkers and civic leaders, streaming live from Philadelphia, Through discussion, ideas and solutions spark new ways to stay informed and engaged. Drop in.
The Constitution Today Panel
Tuesday, June 30, 7-8 PM • Zoom
Political Analyst Paul Lisnek moderates a non-partisan panel discussion with Chicagoland university professors on topics of the First Amendment, power structure of the federal branches, and an update on the recent cases heard by the supreme court.
Glenview’s America 250 Celebration
Wednesday, July 8, 5-8 PM • Jackman Park
Celebrate the United States' 250th birthday with an evening of games, music, and community fun at Jackman Park. Enjoy family-friendly activities, a live reading of the Declaration of Independence, and a concert by The Chicago Experience. Presented in partnership with the Village of Glenview, Glenview Park District, and Glenview Chamber of Commerce. Drop in.
W.F.K. Travers’ Lincoln Portrait
Wednesday, July 15, 6-7 PM • Zoom
Discover the story of the W.F.K. Travers portrait of Abraham Lincoln with art historian Mallory Mortillaro. Follow the 9 foot tall painting's fascinating history as it travels from the Capitol to the 1876 Centennial Exposition and beyond to its modern home.
The Supreme Court and the Constitution
Monday, August 17, 7-8:30 PM • Community Room
Learn how the Supreme Court is making major constitutional decisions today, from high-profile cases to “shadow docket” decisions, and how these rulings impact government powers and everyday life. Presented by Christopher W. Schmidt, Professor of Law at the Chicago-Kent College of Law. In partnership with the League of Women Voters of Glenview-Glencoe.
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