The United States celebrated its Bicentennial in 1976, the previous major milestone before America250.
The Bicentennial commemorated 200 years since the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. It produced celebrations across the country, including parades, exhibitions, public ceremonies, historical programs, and special products. The anniversary reached its central date on July 4, 1976.
The year also saw major national symbols associated with the commemoration. The United States Mint issued special Bicentennial coins, including quarters, half dollars, and dollar coins featuring dual dates and designs connected with the anniversary.
The Bicentennial is not the same as the 1975 anniversary of the American Revolutionary War’s beginning. It is also separate from the 1876 Centennial, which marked 100 years, and the 1926 Sesquicentennial, which marked 150 years. America250 follows the same 1776-to-anniversary calculation at the 250-year point.