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THE United States celebrated on July 4 the 250th anniversary of the declaration of its independence from Great Britain. The occasion, however, drew mixed reactions, depending on one’s political perspective. Because of America’s current social and political divisions, the mood was less jubilant than many hoped for, with some outdoor events marking the anniversary in Washington, D.C. disrupted by extreme heat and heightened security risks. After 250 years, the US has elected one of the most polarizing presidents in its modern history: Donald Trump, whose policies on the Middle East, immigration, tariffs and foreign affairs in general have further divided public opinion. Today, the US remains deeply polarized while continuing to deal with school shootings, concerns over police brutality, widespread homelessness, and an ever-growing opioid crisis.