Every Fourth of July commemorates America’s independence from the yoke of a despotic system of governance and the nation’s emergence into economic and personal liberty. By happy chance, the holiday is traditionally marked by driving, grilling, and fireworks—exactly the activities that might today be banned or restricted under an Orwellian and despotic U.S. Department of Livable Climate.
Let freedom ring.
This year’s event additionally celebrates America’s 250th anniversary (1776–2026). Amid the many look-backs at the nation’s accomplishments, the Institute for Energy Research is highlighting those aspects of the country’s history associated with the master resource.
“As the United States marks its 250th birthday, we reflect on the many milestones that have shaped its strength and character, and the innovation that has powered its progress along the way,” IER president Tom Pyle stated at the launch of the project earlier this year. “The story of America is every bit as much the story of American energy and ingenuity.”
Abundant energy has been the engine of U.S. progress, profoundly shaping and enriching everyday life for generations—powering coast-to-coast travel, conquering the skies with flight, bringing modern conveniences into our homes, and securing American victory in global wars. Today, America is the world leader in energy production and consumption, both domestically and through exports.
IER’s Fueling America showcases this chronology, including a timeline of key advances, interviews with industry leaders and workers, narratives of energy pioneers, and the development of distinct energy industries.
Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence, issued 250 years ago, declared America’s independence from those who would hold power over us. Our founding document asserted that public officials were not masters but servants, whose duty in a free and prosperous nation is to secure and protect the rights of citizens to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In the service of those rights and pursuits, energy—the capacity to do work—looms large.
