The United States commemorated the 250th anniversary of its independence on Saturday amid a heat wave that affected millions and political polarization that marked the day. President Donald Trump spoke on the National Mall in Washington, before a fireworks display touted as historic. On Friday, at Mount Rushmore, he gave a somber speech about the threat of communism.
The celebrations spread throughout the country. In Chicago and New York there were fireworks; The Big Apple began the holiday with a midnight ball drop, similar to New Year’s, and sailboats paraded in front of the Statue of Liberty. However, much of the East Coast suffered temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C). In Washington, a rodeo and the main parade were canceled; only a smaller parade moved down Capitol Hill as spectators sought shade.
Extreme heat and tight events
In the District of Columbia, an extreme heat warning was issued, with rates that could reach 46 °C (115 °F). National Mall organizers monitored the weather. Temperatures above 38°C were forecast from the southeast to New England, with possible relieving thunderstorms. Despite the heat, a Guinean-born Marine was naturalized at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate in Virginia, wearing his dress uniform. In Brattleboro, Vermont, a 7-year-old girl ran to pick up candy during a parade. In Louisville, Kentucky, people signed a copy of the Declaration of Independence with a handmade pen.
Polarization and ultranationalist presence
Dozens of members of the white nationalist group Patriot Front marched in Washington wearing masks and Confederate flags. No arrests were reported, according to the Metropolitan Police. In Philadelphia, the birthplace of the nation, fireworks began at noon near Independence Hall. Hundreds of visitors endured the heat as they awaited the celebrations, which coincided with a World Cup match between France and Paraguay.
“It’s a big party here,” said Carlos Alban, who traveled from Chicago to see the game, upon arriving at the stadium. He added that he saw a fan dressed as one of the Founding Fathers.
In Houston, before another World Cup match, astronauts from the International Space Station sent a message alluding to the holiday. The 250th anniversary, which was supposed to be a reflection on the history of the superpower, was marked by extreme weather and deep political divisions.
