Who was the first baby born on July 4, 1976, the United States Bicentennial?

Karen Steele was the first baby born on July 4, 1976, the United States Bicentennial.

Steele was born 12 seconds after midnight on the anniversary date, making her an especially memorable symbol of the nation’s 200th birthday. Contemporary coverage referred to her as the “Bicentennial Baby.”

Her birth attracted national attention. She appeared on The Today Show and Good Morning America, and she received commemorations from President Gerald Ford, New Jersey Governor Brendan Byrne, and other public figures.

The fact is sometimes confused with the first baby born in a particular city, state, or time zone. The historical account identifies Steele as the first baby born on July 4, 1976, rather than merely the first child born during a local celebration. The story illustrates how the Bicentennial produced personal as well as governmental commemorations.