Trump delivered a 28-minute speech at Mount Rushmore followed by a 23-minute fireworks display featuring quotes from past presidents in the Black Hills.

President Trump spoke about American history, accompanied by a row of veterans, in a speech to mark the 250th anniversary of US independence. He also repeatedly mentioned the threat of communism in a veiled attack on his opponents in the Democratic Party.

The demonstration came as massive Fourth of July crowds descended on Washington for America’s 250th birthday celebration. Trump is set to take the stage on the National Mall’s lawn for the Freedom 250 “Salute to America ," which will be followed by a fireworks show.

Since he started work as NATO secretary-general almost two years ago, Mark Rutte has spent much of his time trying to keep the United States anchored to the world’s biggest military alliance.

The speech was delayed by the threat of thunderstorms after attendees during the day grappled with extreme heat.

The publication said it was resurfacing the piece so readers could "judge for themselves" how the author's assessments had "stood the test of time."

President Donald Trump has commemorated the 250th anniversary of US independence with fireworks and a speech that mixed partisan politics with patriotic appeals.

President Donald Trump put himself centerstage for US Independence Day celebrations on Saturday with a speech and a show that celebrated the nation’s 250th anniversary and highlighted his own political priorities.