Luxembourg Honors America 250: Celebrating what unites us – Exhibition at the Embassy

The year 2026 marks an extraordinary milestone for the United States: the celebration of 250 years of independence. This historic anniversary is a moment of pride and reflection for Americans across the nation and the globe—a time to honor the founding ideals, the resilience, and the diverse communities that have shaped the country.

For Luxembourg, this celebration holds a special and deeply personal significance. As longstanding friends and partners, we are proud to join the American people in celebrating not only the history of the United States, but also the enduring ties that connect our two nations.

To mark this important occasion, the Embassy of Luxembourg in Washington, D.C. is hosting a special exhibition dedicated to Luxembourg-American history, alongside a social media campaign to honor and celebrate the shared heritage and enduring ties between Luxembourg and the United States.

A Bond Built by People and Heritage

The relationship between Luxembourg and the United States goes far beyond diplomacy. It is rooted in generations of shared history, cultural exchange, and, above all, people.

This bond takes on particular meaning during this anniversary year as we honor the Luxembourg descendants who helped build and shape the United States.

In the 19th century, Luxembourg was largely rural and economically challenged. This prompted nearly one-third of its population—around 70,000 people—to emigrate in search of new opportunities. Many of them chose the United States as their destination.

These men and women made the courageous decision to leave their homeland in search of opportunity, hope, and a better life. They stepped into the unknown with determination and faith, leaving behind familiar lives to pursue new beginnings. Large numbers settled in the American Midwest, particularly in states such as Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota. Drawn by the promise of fertile and affordable farmland, these settlers established vibrant communities and contributed significantly to the development of the region.

Their journeys reflect a spirit that remains at the heart of the American story—the courage to reinvent oneself, to overcome adversity, and to build a better future.

A Lasting Legacy, A Shared Future

Today, our relationship continues to flourish through vibrant cultural exchanges, strong economic and trade ties, and a close political alliance built on mutual trust, cooperation, and shared democratic values.