Three PBS NewsHour student reporters share their perspectives on America's founding documents as part of the America 250 student video series. The series was produced in connection with the Freedom Plane National Tour, which is bringing founding-era documents including the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris, and the Bill of Rights to nine cities across the country for the first time. Photo: PBS NewsHour
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July 10, 2026
For the first time ever, founding-era documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Treaty of Paris are leaving Washington, D.C., and touring the country. Here is what students are saying about what those documents mean to them, and why they still matter at 250.
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As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of its founding, America 250: a nation in progress invites students to explore the events and ideas that have shaped the nation over the past two and a half centuries. Through highlighting stories that celebrate America's achievements while examining its ongoing challenges, this student-led series encourages thoughtful reflection on the country's history, values, and future.
To commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, a select collection of founding-era documents are touring the country as part of the Freedom Plane National Tour. Organized by the National Archives Foundation, the tour brings these historic records to nine cities, giving the public an opportunity to engage with key documents from the nation's founding.
The documents include:
These founding-era documents are traveling beyond Washington, D.C., for the first time, giving Americans across the country a rare opportunity to see them firsthand. By making these historic records more accessible, the Freedom Plane National Tour invites visitors to explore the nation's founding principles and reflect on their enduring significance.
Try America's 100 Docs, an activity from the National Archives Foundation, that lets you vote on your favorite primary source document from U.S. history!
World War II demonstrated how the founding ideals articulated in 1776, including liberty and equality, continued to be tested and defended in the 20th century with implications to today.
Even with their diversity and wide appeal, the national park system is facing challenges. The current administration is moving key funds away from the parks and to expensive renovations in Washington D.C., threatening important conservation efforts. Without careful monitoring, the 330 million Americans that visit the parks each year could be facing very different sights.
This collection traces the nation’s journey from colonial life and growing resistance to British rule, through the Revolutionary War, the Declaration of Independence, and the creation of a new constitutional government. Organized thematically, the resources support instruction in U.S. history, civics, and ELA while encouraging inquiry, discussion, and critical thinking.
Republished with permission from PBS News Hour Classroom.
