By Tiffany Williams –
WASHINGTON — In his 2026 State of the Union address, President Donald Trump declared, “The Revolution that began in 1776 has not ended—it still continues, because the flame of Liberty and Independence still burns in the hearts of every American Patriot.”
The American Revolution did begin in 1776, with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, marking the formal break from British rule and the start of the war for independence. Historians universally agree that the conflict concluded with the Treaty of Paris in 1783, when Britain recognized U.S. independence.
Trump’s statement that the Revolution “has not ended” is metaphorical rather than a literal historical claim. The phrase evokes the ongoing struggle for liberty, civic engagement, and national ideals, rather than implying a continuous military or constitutional revolution. References to the “flame of Liberty” and the enduring commitment of American patriots are symbolic, intended to inspire patriotism and reflect cultural themes of freedom and self-government.
Political analysts note that such language, common in U.S. political discourse, draws on the “Spirit of ’76” to reinforce a sense of enduring national values. While factually the Revolutionary War ended in the 18th century, the rhetorical framing emphasizes the ongoing responsibility of citizens to uphold the principles of liberty and independence.
Observers describe Trump’s remarks as aspirational, designed to connect contemporary politics with historical symbolism, rather than as verifiable statements about ongoing historical events.