Boston’s World Cup 2026 Crowd: The Global Proof of American Exceptionalism

In recent days, thousands of visitors from across the globe—Scots in kilts, Brits, Argentines, Algerians, Japanese, and people from 47 countries—have arrived in Boston for the World Cup 2026.

They are exploring small towns and main streets, eyes wide with wonder, soaking up the details of American life. These travelers are basking in our culture, hospitality, and the diverse fabric of this nation. I share their excitement because I felt the same when I first landed here years ago.

There is much to celebrate in America’s 250th anniversary as a nation. It is perfectly acceptable that outsiders remind us of the glory of this American experiment and American Exceptionalism. Ask any naturalized citizen what made them feel so American the moment they received their certificate. What mattered most was being invited into the promised land built on ideas—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as ordained by our Creator—where your provenance did not matter. Once absorbed in your bones and sworn to its supremacy, you own it for posterity.

The novelty of American Exceptionalism cannot be ignored. Once you participate in this American experiment long enough, the idea becomes an axiomatic truth. This begins with the nation’s foundation in ideas. It builds on the Constitution’s establishment and its removal of obstacles to understanding—not just our rights and privileges but also our responsibilities.

We see it in our constitutional republic, co-equal branches with separation of powers, checks and balances that implement the Bill of Rights. We see it in America’s free markets that fuel innovation and entrepreneurship through creative destruction. And we see it in our melting pot, where countless cultures compete and enrich each other while pledging allegiance to the same flag.

American Exceptionalism is hard to grasp from outside, but once embraced, it becomes a daily reality. For many today’s intelligentsia inside Ivy-covered edifices, the idea of American Greatness is archaic or even dangerous. Yet this does not mean we are perfect. We are working toward a more perfect union—better than yesterday.

The arc of our history always bends toward moral and civilizational superiority. We chose the right path, even if it takes a few go-arounds, because our Founding doctrine gives us agency through the rights endowed by our Creator. This narrative of instinctive righteousness is not heard only by the “punditocracy.”

On America’s 250th anniversary, we must bring Americanism to the forefront—through schools, media, and public spaces. What Americanism isn’t about is denying original sins. We can chronicle the path to overcoming them and share lessons learned.

As Theodore Roosevelt said: “Americanism is a question of spirit, conviction, and purpose, not of creed or birthplace.” Let us celebrate America on this milestone. But for those who cannot do so because they do not wish to—there are homes more suitable elsewhere.

All opinions expressed in this article are solely the author’s and do not represent any organization he may be affiliated with. The author is responsible for any errors or omissions.

Partha Chakraborty, Ph.D., CFA, is an economist, statistician, and financial analyst by training. He is currently an entrepreneur in water technologies, blockchain, and wealth management across the United States and India, based in Southern California.