As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the nation’s unmatched economic, cultural, and military dominance remains clear on the global stage. The enduring strength of the Constitution, a merit-based society, and a tradition of innovation have fueled a level of success few nations have ever achieved. 

But growing debt, declining birth rates, and shifting cultural values raise serious questions about long-term stability. 

The future of American greatness may depend on whether the country can preserve the principles that made it exceptional in the first place, argues Victor Davis Hanson on today’s edition of “Victor Davis Hanson: In a Few Words.”