What anniversary did the United States celebrate during the 1976 bicentennial, preceding America250?

The United States celebrated its 200th anniversary during the 1976 bicentennial, preceding America250.

The bicentennial commemorated two centuries since the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. Preparations began years earlier and produced nationwide ceremonies, exhibitions, public works, special performances, and commemorative objects. The federal government created the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration to coordinate many aspects of the observance.

The 1976 celebrations included the sailing ship Operation Sail in New York Harbor, the opening of the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, and the relighting of the Statue of Liberty’s torch after restoration. The anniversary also inspired the use of red, white, and blue designs in everyday products and public decorations. America250 follows the same chronological pattern at 250 years, although the official term changes from bicentennial to semiquincentennial.