The United States marked the 250th anniversary of its independence with a nationwide celebration yesterday.
The main event in Washington resumed after a brief weather-related interruption, with President Donald Trump addressing thousands gathered at the National Mall.
In his address, President Trump paid tribute to American veterans and described the anniversary as a landmark in the nation’s history.
He said the United States would continue to strengthen its military, economy and technological capabilities, and reaffirmed the country’s ambitions in space exploration, including future missions to the Moon and Mars.
The celebrations featured military fly-pasts, historical displays and a fireworks show over the National Mall.
Across the country, commemorative events were also held in cities including New York and Philadelphia, despite heatwaves and severe weather affecting parts of the East Coast.
The United States declared its independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. The 250th anniversary is being observed through year-long events across the country.