Words spoken by four former presidents ahead of America’s 250th anniversary

joe biden

“We are the most unique country in the world,” Biden said. “We truly believe that democracy depends on the provisions of the Constitution. We believe that all people are created equal, and we act and we do well.”

barack obama

“Remember what’s best about us, the fundamental principles on which this country was founded: We don’t have rulers, we don’t have kings, we don’t have princes, we don’t have atrocities. We have a people,” Obama said in an interview. “If we hold true to that idea, if we hold true to that idea, if we are mindful of our responsibilities and obligations, if we understand that our people have the opportunity for self-government, if we extend respect and consideration to our fellow citizens even when we disagree, and if we understand that part of this democratic project is to sort out our differences in peaceful and lawful ways, I am confident that we will be able to operate just as well for another 250 years.”

George W. Bush

“Consider yourself lucky to be a part of this great country,” Mr. Bush told his daughter. “Study our history to better understand what the future holds and become citizens, not bystanders. That means not only participating in the process, but also loving your neighbors as you would like to be loved. One of the beauties of this country is that thousands of people volunteer every day to help those in need. They often go unnoticed, but they make a big difference one person at a time. I hope people look back at our history, recognize that we are an imperfect nation trying to become more perfect, and be optimistic about the future of this country. ”

bill clinton

“This country will survive on process, freedom of speech, freedom to vote, freedom of political action as much as it will survive on specific issues,” Clinton said. “As it is now, compromise is essential.”