Peter Machen, Grades 8-9 HomeschoolHonorable Mention, Foster, Va. This 250th Anniversary of our Nation is significant for many reasons. Only 15 countries in the world today have had independence for more than 250 years, and the United States will become the 16th. Out of the 1,000–2,000 estimated known countries in all of history, only approximately 60 have maintained their independence for more than 250 years. America was founded as a people-based government because our founders believed in a nation that was run by and for the people. Also, the idea that government derives its authority solely from the consent of the governed was introduced and first put into practice. Our nation was built by men and women who sacrificed themselves so that they and the rising generation could have freedom. Over the centuries, many more have died to preserve that precious torch of freedom. Throughout it all, you can see that God’s hand has played a major role in our nation’s founding and preservation. T...