What was the 1876 Philadelphia world’s fair called, in the centennial tradition preceding America250?

The 1876 Philadelphia world’s fair was called the Centennial Exposition.

Officially known as the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures, and Products of the Soil and Mine, the fair celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It ran in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park from May 10 to November 10, 1876.

The exposition was the first official world’s fair held in the United States. Nearly 10 million visitors attended, and 37 countries participated. Exhibits presented industrial products, scientific developments, machinery, art, and agricultural goods to a national and international audience.

Its anniversary role established Philadelphia as a recurring setting for United States commemorations. The city later hosted the Sesquicentennial Exposition in 1926, while the 1976 Bicentennial was celebrated across the country. These earlier observances provide historical context for the nationwide focus of America250.