America’s Great Achievements in History

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, significant events such as the abolition of slavery, the expansion of civil rights, victory in World War II, and landing on the moon are highlighted by its people as monumental accomplishments. This is based on a recent NBC News poll conducted with sponsorship from More Perfect, a nonpartisan group aiming to advance democracy.

This open-ended poll revealed that most respondents categorized their answers into three areas. Nearly two-thirds mentioned events related to the expansion of rights. Around one-sixth chose military or diplomatic achievements, while others focused on scientific or economic milestones.

The End of Slavery

Ending slavery emerged as a significant theme. The 13th Amendment, ratified in 1865, marked the formal end of slavery, freeing more than 4 million enslaved individuals. A Texas man in his 30s noted, “The abolition of slavery was a magnificent achievement for us. It demonstrates how laws were made to benefit people.” Another respondent in her 50s appreciated the amendment for laying a foundation for equal opportunity and freedom in American society.

Subsequent developments further expanding rights for Black Americans were also highlighted, along with the granting of voting rights to women through the 19th Amendment in 1920. This was a significant milestone for the women’s suffrage movement.

Women’s Voting Rights

When questioned about America’s top achievement, an older woman in California stated, “When the women got the right to vote.” She highlighted the progress made since then, emphasizing enhanced educational opportunities.

Victories on the World Stage

American successes in military and diplomatic spheres were frequently mentioned. Many respondents cited the U.S. victory in World War II as pivotal. A Washington state man in his mid-60s explained how the war preserved Western values and democracy, contrasting with the dictatorial threats posed by leaders like Hitler and Mussolini.

For some, this victory symbolizes a period when the nation was united and patriotic, according to a Virginia man in his 40s. A Tennessee man in his 30s expressed that America’s success in WWII asserted its global leadership and military strength.

Technological and Scientific Achievements

Additionally, several respondents celebrated America’s technological achievements, like the space program. As NASA plans to return to the moon with the Artemis program, many see the moon landing as a top achievement. An Idaho man in his 20s remarked, “Technology at the time wasn’t exactly very advanced, but they put someone up there.”

For others, the moon landing reflects the broader achievements of American ingenuity in technology and democracy, highlighting the nation’s role as a leader in both areas, as noted by a Massachusetts man in his 40s.