The bicentennial of the United States' independence in 1976 was a major national event not only in America. Numerous European postal administrations also commemorated the bicentennial with special stamps. These issues reflect the diverse historical, political, and cultural ties between Europe and the United States and remain among the most popular thematic philatelic topics to this day.
Each country set its own priorities. Andorra honored Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the American Declaration of Independence and later the third president of the United States. Belgium opted for the official anniversary logo, thus emphasizing the international celebratory nature of the bicentennial.
The Federal Republic of Germany placed Carl Schurz at the center of its branding – the German-born revolutionary of 1848 who rose to become a prominent politician in the USA. Together with the Capitol and the American flag, the brand symbolizes the shared democratic traditions of both countries.
Luxembourg showcased Independence Hall in Philadelphia, the historic site of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Monaco, with its famous Liberty Bell, featured one of the most recognizable symbols of American history and supplemented the issue with a rare commemorative block.
Portugal, like several Eastern European countries, combined the anniversary with the international stamp exhibition Interphil '76 in Philadelphia, thereby highlighting the global importance of philately. Cyprus, finally, honored the first American president, George Washington, with a portrait after Rembrandt Peale.
Colonial history
The former European colonial powers also contributed noteworthy pieces. France depicted Foreign Minister Charles Gravier de Vergennes and Benjamin Franklin together, commemorating France's crucial support in the American Revolutionary War. Great Britain also chose Benjamin Franklin as its subject—a remarkable sign of reconciliation two hundred years after the American colonies separated from the British motherland.
Spain's four-point edition was particularly historically oriented. It commemorated Spain's often underestimated contribution to the American Revolutionary War and acknowledged its military support for the American cause.
The European bicentennial issues of 1976 impressively demonstrate how differently countries interpreted the 200th anniversary of the United States. Personalities such as Jefferson, Franklin, Washington, and Schurz, historical buildings, national symbols, and significant events combine to form a multifaceted reflection of transatlantic history – and a chapter of international philately that remains fascinating to this day.
Michael Burzan, AIJP
