Presidential historian Jon Meacham asserted on MS NOW's "Morning Joe" that the United States may have been truly founded in 1965, marking the emergence of a "multiracial, multiethnic democracy." This perspective comes as the nation approaches its 250th birthday, traditionally celebrated on July 4th.
Meacham contended that while the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the subsequent framing of the Constitution in 1787-1789 established an experiment in self-government, a significant portion of the population was excluded. He pointed to the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 as pivotal moments that brought a more inclusive democracy into being. "And so we’re really about 60 years old, and we’re a developing democracy in a lot of ways," Meacham stated.
Despite this argument, Meacham also acknowledged the contributions of the Founding Fathers, suggesting that even "imperfect people can push us toward more perfect outcomes." He emphasized the importance of actively pursuing these ideals rather than merely discussing them.
Meacham's comments echo sentiments expressed by other media figures in anticipation of the 250th anniversary. Rev. Al Sharpton noted in April that the holiday is not a celebration for all Americans, given the nation's history of slavery. He questioned the appropriateness of celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence when emancipation did not occur until 1863.
Former MSNBC host Joy Reid similarly suggested that Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery, represents a more genuine Independence Day. She argued that the U.S. did not become a true democracy until slavery ended and that the full realization of democratic principles was further delayed until the 1960s, when the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments were finally enforced.