2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of a remarkable nation, the United States of America. A milestone of this magnitude should not pass without reflecting on what has been created over the past two and a half centuries—and what will be required to preserve it for generations to come.
"Two Hundred Fifty Years" reflects on many of the foundational principles and ideals that have shaped the American story. But the song is not simply a look backward. It also asks important questions about the future and the responsibility that comes with the freedoms and opportunities inherited from those who came before us.
There is much to celebrate and much for which to be grateful. Yet gratitude carries a responsibility. The freedoms, opportunities, and ideals passed down through generations must not simply be enjoyed; they must also be understood, protected, and passed forward.
"Two Hundred Fifty Years" is ultimately a song of reflection—honoring the past, considering the present, and asking what each generation must do to ensure that the promise entrusted to us remains for those who follow.
LYRICS
Back in seventeen seventy-six
American colonists took a risk
Tired of bowing to the British crown
They stood for truths that still echo now
Taxed with no voice, pushed aside
But freedom’s fire burned deep inside
From Lexington fields to the Delaware snow
A dream was born that all would know
They believed our freedoms came from God alone
Beyond the reach of earthly thrones
Two hundred fifty years still free
Because brave hearts chose liberty
Life and freedom, the pursuit of dreams
Still live on in what this country means
Rights and duties walk hand in hand
It takes strong hearts to guard this land
And every generation must decide
Will freedom live… or will it die
Jefferson wrote by candlelight
That all are equal in God’s own sight
George Washington through war and storm
Held together hearts tired and worn
Across Yorktown the cannons roared
As freedom’s flame began to soar
They pledged their lives, their hearts, their land
For timeless truths they vowed would stand
The cost of freedom has always been high
Liberty weakens when the good close their eyes
Two hundred fifty years still free
Because brave hearts chose liberty
Life and freedom, the pursuit of dreams
Still live on in what this country means
Rights and duties walk hand in hand
It takes strong hearts to guard this land
And every generation must decide
Will freedom live… or will it die
[Spoken Word]
To the young hearts growing up today
Freedom is not guaranteed to stay
If history fades and truth is denied
Then liberty slowly dies inside
Freedom thrives on informed minds
Those that stand strong in difficult times
America survives with the rule of law
Justice and freedom protected for all
The loud may try to rewrite the past
Tear at the freedoms built to last
The men who signed in Philadelphia knew
This nation’s future would someday rest with you
Two hundred fifty years still free
Because they passed the torch to you and me
Life and liberty still light the way
If we protect them every day
Stand for truth when Americans feel unsure
Teach true history so tomorrow will endure
And every generation must decide
Will freedom stand… or be denied
Freedom lives on…
If we refuse to let it die
Happy Birthday America