Voices of America: What will America look like in another 250 years?

The thing that is most responsible for shaping America is, well, Americans. That is why in our celebration of the country’s 250th birthday, we decided to talk to those who make America what it is: its citizens. The biggest takeaway? We're not all the same. But that’s just one of the things that makes us great. 

In this series, we asked dozens of Americans nine questions to gather their thoughts on America yesterday, today and tomorrow. Here is what they had to say.

What will America look like in another 250 years?

I honestly do not know, but I hope America continues to grow into a nation that values both our differences and our shared humanity. While today’s divisiveness can feel discouraging, I hope future generations remember the sacrifices made for our freedoms and continue striving toward a more compassionate, united country. My hope is that America remains a beautiful melting pot — one where people care deeply for one another and for the planet we all share. 

— Karie Friling, Sarasota city manager

Well, America, what it’s gonna look like in 250 years depends on what America does today, and all the years from now until then. We have to maintain our patriotism. We have to maintain our determination to keep this country the way it is. We can’t allow any big changes and make sure that we have a very, very strong military to protect our country. I don’t think the children of this world now are educated enough about our country, and about the meaning of patriotism.

— Steven Merriman, Bradenton resident and retired police officer and fireman

We’ll probably have flying cars. I think robots will do all of our house cleaning.

— Noel Ladd, co-owner of Couch LBK

I hope it’s an improved version of what we have today, and that we still live in a land where we’re free.

— Rob Hollway, The Out-of-Door Academy football coach

I would hope somewhat similar to today. Maybe a little more towards the foundation of what the country is rooted on instead of what we’ve morphed into here over the last 100 years.

— Luke Arnold, bicycle mechanic

Photo by Lesley Dwyer

I’m cautiously hopeful for the future of our country. We are in a time of division and polarization. The technology we have come to rely on has also driven us apart. There is immense promise with the future of AI, but it is essential that we do not outsource our critical thinking to machines. It is also important that we gather often, in person with other humans, in low-tech environments and that we transfer these values to the next generations. I believe that communities all over the nation being extremely intentional about preserving what makes us human is imperative to the future of our Republic, and frankly, civilization as we know it. 

— Amanda Ballard, Manatee County commissioner

Hopefully America will look the same as it does today in 250 years without some of the major problems like the push to make everyone the same and have the same culture and values. Everyone being different and having their own cultures is what makes America, America. If everyone is suddenly the same, then the people lose their individuality.

— Paul Jordan, student at Lakewood Ranch High and member of Technology Student Association

It is hard to say. It feels as though many have lost their moral compass. We need a return to accountability, loyalty and civility.

— Bill Schey, Marine Corps veteran 

Beautiful, strong, prosperous. I hope our country will grow.

— Pat Goranson, visitor from Illinois

In another 250 years, America might not resemble what it looks like today. Hate and violence might win out, which will not paint a pretty picture.

— Jeffrey Goldman, Friends of the Lakewood Ranch Library board member

It’s borderline scary, because I have to say it, AI is a fascinating thing that’s developing. 

You always were pro-technology and whatnot, but where is it going to take us, and how is that going to spill out? I’m thinking five years from now, it’s going to be like, how are we dealing with this, because what we’ve created is going to outthink us exponentially, so honestly, it’s borderline scary. 

I’m Mr. go-go, think it out, make it happen, be all you can be. It’s still a little daunting. So 250 years from now, your guess is as good as mine. Maybe we’re not even here. I don’t even know.

— Brian Quinn, Sarasota resident 

I think we’re going to be a lot more uniform and come together. We are more separated in this day and age, but I think we’re going to get back to being more united. Looking that far ahead, I think we’re going to be a lot closer.

— Antoine Arthur, kitchen design specialist

Hopefully better than where we are today. We’re so divisive today. I never thought we would be where we are today. 

— Mike Smeraglia,  Lakewood Ranch retiree