The United States Postal Service has launched a yearlong commemorative campaign celebrating the 250th anniversary of the nation and its founding principles.

Figures of the American Revolution Forever Stamps

A central part of this celebration is the release of the Figures of the American Revolution Forever stamps. This collection honors the diverse individuals who played a crucial role in the fight for liberty and the formation of the United States.

A Collaborative Effort

The Postal Service aims to remind citizens that the pursuit of independence was a collaborative effort, not the work of a single leader. It was achieved through the sacrifices of a vast coalition of people dedicated to freedom and self-governance.

Honoring Diverse Contributions

The collection features twenty-five individual portraits, each created with historical detail and artistic reverence. Abigail Adams and John Adams are among the notable figures recognized for their contributions to independence and the early Republic.

The stamps also honor James Armistead, an enslaved African American who served as a vital intelligence source for the Continental Army, and Elizabeth Freeman, whose legal challenge contributed to the abolition of slavery in Massachusetts.

International and Native American Allies

International allies like the Marquis de Lafayette and Baron von Steuben are also featured, acknowledging their essential military expertise. The stamps also recognize Native American leaders such as Cornplanter and Agwalongdongwas (Good Peter) for their roles during the transition to independence.

Artistic Renditions

Twelve contemporary artists, including Julia Bottoms, Michael J. Deas, and Kam Mak, were commissioned to create original portraits. Daniel Piazza, chief curator of philately at the National Postal Museum, emphasized that the stamps highlight the collaborative nature of the American Revolution.

He stated that the pursuit of freedom was supported by people from all walks of life, including statesmen, soldiers, poets, and artisans.

The Figures of the American Revolution Forever stamps are now available for purchase at Post Office locations nationwide and on the official USPS website.