Josh Blackman and his family spent the Fourth of July in Philadelphia, a decision made last-minute but deemed the right one. Despite a World Cup game scheduled for the same weekend, the city had ample capacity for visitors, including available mileage tickets and hotel rooms.
Blackman visited iconic sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell with his children, marking his first visit to these landmarks in over a decade. At 3:00 p.m., the line for Independence Hall was nearly two hours long, so he toured solo. He noted the small size of the room where the Founders convened and reflected on the historical conditions, recalling that in 1776 Thomas Jefferson, accompanied by his enslaved valet Robert Hemmings, rented two rooms on the second floor.
The visit also included the National Museum of American Jewish History, which Blackman had not previously seen. He referenced a report highlighting a trend where the Founders are minimized or excluded, traditional patriotic narratives are viewed with suspicion or contempt, and foundational American symbols are reinterpreted to serve ideological purposes rather than inspire gratitude.
Blackman posed a reflective question: "Who, It Is Fair to Ask, Is Retaliating Against Whom in This Situation?" This underscores ongoing debates about the interpretation of American history.
Overall, the trip combined historical appreciation with contemporary cultural observations during the nation's Independence Day.
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