US begins 250th independence anniversary amid heat wave and political divides

Summary

The United States began marking the 250th anniversary of American independence on Saturday amid sharp political polarisation and a severe heat wave affecting millions across several states. The signing of the Declaration of Independence, one of history's best-known statements of democratic ambition, is being observed in different ways across the country, although extreme weather has forced some events to be changed or cancelled. President Donald Trump is due to speak on the National Mall ahead of what is being billed as a historically enormous fireworks show over Washington. Fireworks are also planned over Navy Pier in Chicago and against the New York City skyline, while New York ushered in the holiday with a midnight ball drop and a parade of tall ships past the Statue of Liberty, recalling the celebrations around America's 200th anniversary in 1976. Anticipation for the milestone holiday had been building for much of the year, offering Americans a chance to reflect on their complicated history as former colonists of an empire who later became a superpower. But celebrations planned over several months had to be adjusted, with much of the East Coast sweltering under temperatures that approached and, in many places, crossed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In Washington, the city's main Independence Day parade scheduled for Saturday was cancelled, though a smaller parade went ahead in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood, where people stood under trees for shade. Also in the area, dozens of members of the white nationalist group Patriot Front, wearing face masks and carrying Confederate battle flags, held a march. No arrests were reported, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. The celebrations are also taking place during an election year marked by deep divisions over politics, culture, race, class and immigration.