The United States of America is a nation of nations. It is made up of 50 states, each with its own unique history, culture and traditions. The United States was formed from 13 British colonies along the Atlantic seaboard, which declared independence in 1776 and then won the Revolutionary War against Great Britain. The new country's constitution called for a republican form of government, with an elected president and two houses of congress. This form of government has served the nation well for more than 200 years. Since the days of our founding fathers, Americans have been proud to call themselves citizens of the United States. They are proud that they share common ideals and beliefs that make them unique among all other peoples on earth.