What Alexis de Tocqueville still teaches America about liberty, citizenship, and our next 250 years

Published August 16, 2026 6:45am ET



I have been reading Tocqueville again lately, prompted by our nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations. Looking at where we are today, it is hard not to wonder: if Alexis de Tocqueville showed up in 2026, would he recognize modern America? More importantly, would he bet on us to last another 250 years? I believe he would judge America not by its politics alone, but by the habits and character that support its republic.

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