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Honoring the past Celebrating American ingenuity Inspiring the future
In 1776, our nation’s founders declared independence based on three inalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Over the past 250 years, innovators from coast to coast have helped turn those ideals into reality. Their ingenuity made our world safer, advanced our technological progress, and created prosperity for both the country and their families.
As America’s Innovation Agency, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) protects the inventions and brands that drive our economy forward. Join us as we explore the foundations of the intellectual property system in America, the history of patents and trademarks, and how innovation transforms our daily lives.
250 years of American intellectual property
Since the first Patent Act was signed by President George Washington in 1790, the United States has granted more than 12 million patents and registered more than 7 million trademarks. During that time, additional foundational laws have modernized the intellectual property system and dedicated examiners have adopted new technologies to better serve applicants.
From the lightbulb and the telephone to the brands we use every day, the USPTO remains a place where the past and future meet. Patents and trademarks tell a key part of America’s innovation story—from household conveniences to life-saving technologies and cultural icons. They protect inventors and creators, encourage investment in new ideas, and help turn a single idea into products, businesses, and public benefit.
From the first patents to today’s startups, American inventors and creators have transformed the world. The USPTO seeks to inspire and encourage innovation by highlighting innovators throughout history. Explore a few of their stories to learn about the importance of creating and protecting intellectual property, and the critical role it has played in innovations past and present.
![The section title, "Inspiring the Future" precedes the quote, "[I]t is difficult to recall a single feature of our national progress along material lines that has not been vitalized by the touch of the inventor’s genius.” — Henry Baker](/sites/default/files/a250-quotes-inspire.jpg)
As we celebrate America at 250, we honor the spirit of invention that connects communities, builds livelihoods, and inspires future generations. Join us in storytelling, learning, and action—together we’ll build a legacy of innovation for the next 250 years.
From the first U.S. patent to the next 250 years of American innovation
August 4, 1 p.m.
In commemoration of the first U.S. patent, this webinar will connect that historic milestone to the present day, exploring how American inventors have shaped the nation.
In commemoration of the first U.S. patent, this webinar will connect that historic milestone to the present day, exploring how American inventors have shaped the nation.
America’s 250 Innovator Trading Cards
As our nation marks 250 years of independence, the USPTO invites you to commemorate this historic milestone by exploring the innovators who have contributed to America’s rich legacy of innovation. Below you will see the innovators we celebrate during America’s 250th Anniversary.
Presidentially signed patents
Public Search Facility
USPTO headquarters
Patents were personally signed by the President of the United States from 1790 to 1836. Though many of these early patents were lost in a devastating fire, you can visit us to see surviving examples from our archives in person.
USPTO headquarters
Patents were personally signed by the President of the United States from 1790 to 1836. Though many of these early patents were lost in a devastating fire, you can visit us to see surviving examples from our archives in person.
Past events
Celebrating 250: Commemorative patent and trademark signing ceremony
Thursday, July 23, 11 a.m. ET
U.S. Department of Commerce
Held at the Commerce Research Library, in the U.S. Department of Commerce—the former home of the USPTO for more than three decades—this event symbolized the milestones built on the vision, effort, and innovation of inventors and entrepreneurs throughout our nation’s history.
USPTO America 250 Flagship Celebration
Wednesday, July 1
The USPTO celebrated 250 years of American innovation and spirit with events at our Alexandria, Virginia, headquarters and other USPTO campuses across the country. The celebration featured Alexandria Town Crier Dr. Benjamin Fiore-Walker, performances by the U.S. Army Fife & Drum Corps (Old Guard) and the USPTO Patenteers Chorus, and remarks by USPTO Director John A. Squires. After the live portion, employees enjoyed light refreshments, selfie stations, discussions with Thomas Jefferson, an artful coloring activity, a digital wish wall, museum tours, employee exhibits, and more.
Learn about the USPTO, explore iconic patents and trademarks through a special American Innovation digital exhibit, and watch the short film “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Innovation.”
Wednesday, June 24 | We will discuss the USPTO’s participation at the Great American State Fair and exciting historical exhibits and activities at USPTO headquarters.
March 5, 2026 | The USPTO launched the Inventor Collectible Trading Card Series in 2012 to celebrate the innovators who have contributed to America's rich legacy of invention. As we commemorate 250 years of American ingenuity and creativity, check out our latest inventor card, celebrating the achievements of Alexander Graham Bell.
March 5, 2026 | This educational and celebratory program explores Bell’s groundbreaking invention and its impact on telecommunications and technology.
Explore innovators, honors, and achievements
Freedom 250 coordinates national and local efforts to commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary. Through events, exhibits, and learning tools, it highlights milestones in American history, technology, and civic life.
NIHF recognizes the enduring legacies of exceptional U.S. patent holders. With each new class of Inductees, we applaud their inventions and provide opportunities for them to engage and inspire the inventors of tomorrow.
NMTI is the nation’s highest honor for technological achievement, bestowed by the president of the United States on America's leading innovators
To honor America's legacy of innovation, the USPTO has created a series of commemorative cards to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of Americans past and present. These cards will debut throughout America's semiquincentennial celebration.
Share a story
Submit a short story about an invention, family business, or brand that mattered to you.
Start your IP journey
Answer questions to identify the type of IP you have.
Access toolkits to learn the basics of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
Learn about USPTO resources that can help you
These libraries across the country can provide specific resources for IP protection.
Our outreach offices provide local access to USPTO trainings, events, and more.
Call or email for general information or to be directed to other USPTO services.