As America approaches its 250th anniversary, former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Dr. Ben Carson is urging a renewed focus on the nation's history and values-warning that younger generations may be losing a sense of connection to what he calls the country's foundational story.
Carson, who rose from poverty to become a world-renowned neurosurgeon before entering public service, recently spoke about what he sees as a growing gap between younger Americans and the nation's past. Drawing from both his personal journey and his observations of cultural trends, he emphasized the importance of remembering how far the country has come.
"Every country tells its story through its history," Carson suggested in a recent interview. "When that story is forgotten or distorted, it can affect how people see their identity and their future."
His comments come as new data suggests a shift in national sentiment among younger adults. A recent Gallup poll indicated that a smaller percentage of Gen Z Americans express pride in their country compared to older generations-a trend Carson believes may be tied to how history is being taught and understood.
To address this, Carson has partnered with Brave Books alongside Christian actor Kirk Cameron and athlete Riley Gaines to release the "America Wins Bundle." The collection of children's books is designed to present American history through themes of faith, perseverance, and freedom.
Carson also pointed to his own upbringing as a reflection of opportunity. Raised in Detroit by a single mother with limited education, he said his early challenges helped shape his belief in possibility and personal responsibility. From those beginnings, he went on to study at Yale University, earn a medical degree, and later serve as one of the youngest leaders in pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins.
Throughout his life, Carson has often credited his faith and personal discipline as guiding influences-values he believes can still resonate with the next generation.
As the country nears a historic milestone, Carson's message carries a sense of urgency and hope. He encourages younger Americans not only to acknowledge the nation's imperfections, but also to recognize its progress and the opportunities it continues to provide.
"It's a country where people from all backgrounds have had the chance to build something meaningful," he has said in past reflections. "And that's something worth remembering and passing on."
