When people across North Dakota and this nation celebrate on July 4 this year, they will be marking a significant milestone – 250 years of independence.

Events observing the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, officially the Semiquincentennial, will be held across the country, including in North Dakota, for many to participate in and enjoy. Family gatherings and other activities are set to be part of the day as well as watching or shooting off the traditional fireworks.

The 250th year since the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, is a time to reflect on the nation’s history and how far this country has come from 13 colonies and the establishment of the United States of America to today’s 250 years of freedom and independence.

This July 4 marks another special event for North Dakota – the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, a facility that will bring many visitors to the state now and for many future years.

President Trump paid a visit to Medora to view the library and speak to a large crowd at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre on Wednesday.

Theodore Roosevelt spent time in the Badlands in Dakota Territory to ranch and hunt before he became president and made a return trip to North Dakota after he was president. He has often been quoted as saying if it wasn’t for his time in the Badlands, he wouldn’t have become president.

Minot has a tie to Roosevelt not mentioned extensively. The city of Minot’s namesake, Henry Davis Minot and Roosevelt were classmates at Harvard University and fellow birding enthusiasts. Minot has a park and school named for Roosevelt, and a statue of Roosevelt on horseback is located in front of Roosevelt Park Zoo.

As we celebrate Independence Day, or July Fourth as it often called, on Saturday, enjoy the day but take some time to remember this year’s observance is significant and commemorates the birth of the United States as a free and independent nation. It is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made to establish the nation and what we must continue to protect.