On July 4, 2026, Americans will mark the 250th anniversary—also known as the seminquincentennial—of the Declaration of Independence.
The Civic Thought & Leadership Inititiave at UVU's Center for Constitutional Studies is leading a yearlong '76 in '26 effort. We are encouraging Utah's teens and adults to read David McCullough's 1776 and all Utahns to learn about the American fight for freedom, driven by the ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
After following the struggle for America's independence and the core values that inspired that effort, as outlined in 1776, let's get Utahns talking to one another about what we learned and how those values help us govern ourselves today.
The resources on this page will help individuals, parents, libraries, and others to participate more meaningfully in Utah Reads!.
David McCullough's 1776 focuses on the pivotal year when American colonists fought for independence from British rule.
The book follows George Washington as he transforms from an inexperienced military commander into a determined leader facing seemingly impossible odds. Washington's Continental Army was poorly equipped, underfunded, and often outnumbered by professional British forces.
The narrative captures key moments including the disastrous Battle of Long Island, the demoralizing retreat across New Jersey, and the surprise victories at Trenton and Princeton.
McCullough shows how ordinary farmers and merchants became soldiers, enduring harsh weather and constant danger. Through detailed accounts of both American and British perspectives, the book reveals how close the Revolution came to failure and how Washington's persistence and strategic thinking kept the cause of independence alive during its darkest hour.
Click here for the reading guide for use in book clubs, classrooms, or public reading activities, which can be adapted by parents for use at home.
The guide includes—
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