America's 400th Anniversary

Book excerpt: From Book's Foreword: It is our privilege to submit the Final Report of the Jamestown 400th Commemoration Commission, created by Act of Congress (Public Law 106-565) and signed into law by the President of the United States on December 23, 2000. Our report summarizes the extraordinary story of America's 400th Anniversary, an 18-month program of commemorative activities and events that afforded Americans the opportunity to honor their nation's beginning at Jamestown and reflect upon the vision and values that define the world's oldest republic. The anniversary program was a resounding success. We wish to express our appreciation to the President and the Congress, and ultimately the American People, for the vigorous support we received throughout the course and planning and executing the commemorative program. We are especially grateful for the singular honor of serving the Commission. The 400th anniversary commemoration produced stunning new discoveries, significant new scholarship, impressive new interpretive facilities, and illuminating new educational initiatives that will continue to enhance our understanding of the remarkably consequential convergence of man and nature in the Chesapeake region four centuries ago. Anniversary-related programs and activities increased public awareness of the foundational importance of the Jamestown settlement and Virginia colony of our nation's history.