TEDtalks: Hotdogs & History
I learned two surprising things in putting together this special July 4th issue of Senior News on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The first concerned Betsy Ross, who — as everybody knows — sewed the first American flag. Or did she?
Alert proofreader (and better history student than I) Mark Larson pointed out that this is a myth. Turns out there’s no evidence that Betsy Ross had anything to do with the Stars & Stripes.
Then there’s James Wilson, a young Scottish lawyer who, in 1768, nine years before the Declaration of Independence and 19 years before the Constitution, wrote an essay containing familiar and powerful phrases including “We the People” and “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” Historian Jesse Wegman’s new book is called “The Lost Founder” because despite Wilson’s essential role in defining America, he was largely “written out of history.”
He sure flew under my radar in 12th grade American History class, so I’m glad to learn about him, and about Betsy.
Every July, Senior News celebrates the 4th with the usual parades, bunting, hotdogs, festivities, fireworks and rousing renditions of “God Bless America.” All that’s still part of this issue, but our writers take a more nuanced look at the holiday this year, and what American independence means to them in 2026.
“Even as we enjoy the fireworks and parades, it might be a good time to remember that our story is not simple or one-dimensional,” writes Allan Katz (page 1).
Nancy Lee, who grew up “steeped” in Philadelphia’s living history, points out that “each of us has a vote in the combined fate of all Americans — a right even now under assault and in need of defense” (page 3).
Louisa Rogers explains “Why I Don’t Call Myself a Patriot” (page 8). And Peter Pennekamp has considered moving back to Germany, but, “I am without doubt an American” (page 15).
Mandy Bray sent in her lovely painting of the nation’s bicentennial celebration, which she experienced on the National Mall in 1976.
“The best part was the overall spirit of unity: everyone was celebrating, and no one was excluded,” Mandy recalled. “No one was checking IDs or screening anyone’s belongings — it was the heart of Washington, D.C., and everyone was welcome! All nationalities, races, and creeds came together as Americans to celebrate with peace and unity.”
That’s the kind of spirit the Founding Fathers had in mind. Happy Independence Day, America!
Ted Pease, editor of Senior News, flies his flag in Trinidad.
