James M. Buchanan

In 1987, the United States celebrates the bicentennial anniversary of the constitutional convention that provided the basic rules for the American political order. This convention was one of the very few historical examples in which political rules were deliberately chosen.

American Economist

Richard Ben-Veniste

At bottom, the decision to pardon Nixon was a political judgment properly within the bounds of Ford's constitutional authority. The specter of a former president in the criminal dock as our country moved into its bicentennial year was profoundly disturbing.

American Lawyer

Fred Kaplan

I'm not a Lincoln expert, rather a biographer who has had the pleasure of reading much of what has been written about him from his lifetime to this year of his bicentennial. Some advice: Don't try that unless you have at least five years available.

American Author

Aaron Dessner

There are so many books out about Abraham Lincoln out now because it's the bicentennial of his birth. I've known a lot about the Civil War, but I'm just getting more into it.

American Musician

Edwidge Danticat

To start with, for example this year, 2004, is the bicentennial of Haitian independence.

Haitian Author

Caitlyn Jenner

The Montreal Olympics were in July 1976, the bicentennial, at the height of patriotism.

American Athlete

Used to mark significant historical occasions or anniversaries.

Historical Milestone

Bicentennial is not an annual event, it occurs once every 200 years.

Not Annual

Often involves national festivities and public holidays.

Nation Celebrations

Used to describe special exhibitions or editions commemorating 200 years.

Exhibitions and Editions

Gives a view or celebration of progress over two centuries.

Long-term Perspective

Encourages learning and reflection on the past 200 years.