Cage Fights at the Executive Mansion! A Gigantic Arch! Trump's Gaudy Plans for the Nation's 250th Semiquincentennial

When the United States observed its bicentennial on July 4, 1976, the milestone was marked by the inauguration of the National Air and Space Museum's main building on Washington DC's iconic Mall. Designed in a strikingly modern style, it stood as a monument to American aeronautical prowess, spanning from the Wright brothers to the moon landings.

At that time, despite the recent stench of political shenanigans, there was a widespread sense of a nation embracing progress and technological puissance. Period recreations were present, yet the dominant narrative was firmly on the horizon and modernity.

“The one that people know mostly is the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. And we’re gonna top it by, I think, a lot.”

Now, half a century later, as plans advance for the 250th anniversary, the monumental focus appears to have shifted markedly toward nostalgic spectacle. Intent on stamping a distinctly gilded imprimatur on the capital, proposals for a victory arch to be erected near the Lincoln Memorial have been promoted. Multiple conceptual versions of this monument, now termed the “Independence Arch,” display varying levels of gilding and statuary.

Given the documented fondness for bling, many expect the most gilded design to be selected. Architectural observers have described the aesthetic as reminiscent of “regional car dealership rococo.” All designs are modeled on the ancient Arch of Titus in Rome, a classical form recurring throughout history in structures like the Arc de Triomphe.

Scale and Ambition: A Foot for Every Year

Initial proposals floated three different scales, but the most massive option—towering at 250 feet tall—has reportedly been settled on. This “foot-per-year” symbolism is seen as perfectly aligning with the occasion's motifs. For perspective, this would substantially surpass the 164-foot height of Paris's Arc de Triomphe.

Historically, monumental arches—particularly grandiose ones—have been catnip for authoritarian figures. Historical plans for even more gargantuan arches in other cities underscore this pattern of using monumental design to assert power and permanence.

Additional Proposals: Coins and Cage Fights

The monumental proposals are accompanied by other unconventional ideas for the semiquincentennial. These reportedly include:

• Commemorative Coins: Producing $1 coins featuring a contemporary figure's portrait, a move that would contravene a century-old law barring such a practice.
• White House UFC Event: Staging a major ultimate fighting competition in a pop-up arena on the White House's grounds, a scenario unthinkable for previous administrations.

These plans have contributed to a perception of an administration eager to blur the lines between state ceremony and personal spectacle.

Heritage Concerns: The Fate of the Kennedy Center

Another divisive plan involves the proposed redevelopment of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, a revered example of mid-century architecture. This has provoked significant opposition from heritage groups.

One such organization has publicly criticized the process, arguing that the building is a “beloved cultural institution” and a “significant work of modern architecture.” They have voiced deep concern over an “ongoing lack of adherence to established procedures” and emphasized that such federally-owned sites “must be stewarded transparently, not treated as personal property.”

Echoes of Rome

Through these endeavors, there is a clear attempt to appropriate classical symbolism for current political ends. Directives favoring “traditional” architectural styles for federal buildings are seen by critics as a calculated move to consolidate control over civic design and marginalize modernist expressions.

While the proposed arch is marketed as a monument to national independence, its imposing scale and associated undertones prompt historical reflection. It brings to mind the ancient practice of a attendant whispering “Remember you are mortal” to a triumphant general—a reminder of transience and the passing nature of all things.