US Vice President JD Vance called on Americans to move beyond political and social divisions, urging citizens to embrace a shared national identity during celebrations marking the country’s 250th anniversary.

Speaking at the Independence Day event, Vance encouraged Americans to reject what he described as a “two-dimensional view” of their fellow citizens and the nation, stressing that the United States has always achieved its greatest successes through unity.

He said America’s history is the story of people working together to build “a great civilisation out of the wilderness,” adding that the country’s achievements have never been the result of one group alone.

Highlighting major moments in US history, Vance pointed to the nation’s role in World War II and its success in sending astronauts to the Moon as examples of what Americans can accomplish when united.

“All of us have a part, all of us had our part… All of us will need to do our part to create the next 250 years of American greatness,” Vance said.

Concluding his remarks, the vice president expressed pride in the American people and wished the nation a happy birthday as celebrations continued across the country.