In today’s cultural environment, it has become almost routine to hear a steady drumbeat of negativity about the United States. It ignores the extraordinary contributions the United States has made to humanity. While the world continues to rely on American generosity, American innovation, and American leadership, the cultural narrative has shifted toward condemnation rather than appreciation. The question then becomes: Why was the United States able to do all this? But on the 250th birthday of the United States, it is important to step back and look at the full picture.