United States marks Declaration of Independence 250th anniversary

As part of commemorations for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, various perspectives explore American identity through religious and cultural lenses.

In a historical reflection, Frederick K. Wentz examines the intersection of Lutheran faith and American patriotism. He describes the dual identities of being baptized and being born American as foundational social acts that provide a sense of belonging to both the people of God and the nation.

From an artistic perspective, Horace D. Ballard of the Harvard Art Museums discusses the diverse natural landscapes of the United States. He highlights how American landscape painting, specifically the Hudson River School founded by Thomas Cole, sought to document the country's ecosystems and beauty, often portraying the land as a wild Eden amidst rapid industrialization.