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Good morning and welcome to a special America 250 edition of Morning Wire, where we give you a rundown of the United States' milestone anniversary and why the happenings of the last two-and-a-half centuries are still relevant.

On today's agenda, marking the anniversary in a divided nation, exploring the items that helped shape the country and a chance to test just how much you know about American history and culture.

But first, take a tour of the makeover President Donald Trump has given Washington, D.C. 

UP FIRST

Touring Trump’s Washington: How the president is putting his imprint on the nation’s capital

A trip to the nation's capital is a summer vacation staple. We walk you through the changes President Donald Trump has made to the city since he returned to office. He has put his image and name on buildings, torn down storied structures, altered others, started massive construction projects and deployed armed military personnel. Read more. 

TOP STORIES

Part of the AIDS Memorial Quilt is displayed in front of the Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock, Ark., for World AIDS Day in 2008. (AP Photo/Danny Johnston)

American Objects: The items that have shaped the nation

What do the hot dog, the Resolute Desk, slave shackles, the AIDS quilt and the all-you-can-eat buffet have in common? They each tell a slice of the American story. With the American Objects project, the AP is exploring the country's cultural tapestry — one piece at a time. Follow along.  

How well do you know US history? Test your knowledge

Check out our slate of America-themed quizzes, including this question:

What eating contest is closely associated with the Fourth of July?

1. A pie eating contest in Iowa
2. A barbecue contest in Texas
3. A hot dog eating contest in New York 
4. A lobster roll contest in Maine  

Beyond the byline: Journalists share their brush with US history

Flying commercial with former President Joe Biden. Meeting actor Bill Murray while covering Groundhog Day. In this new video series, AP reporters recount those on-the-job moments that felt like a bit of American history in the making. Watch more.