How Does America Actually Work?
Most people are taught what America is.
Few are taught how it works.
Project 1602 exists to help change that.
Through history, economics, institutions, and public policy, we prepare the next generation to understand America—and help shape its future.
Choose Your Starting Point
Three ways to begin understanding America.
America at 250
A reflection on America's 250th year of Independence—and an invitation to better understand the American story.
The American story didn’t end in 1776.
It has been written by every generation since.
Each generation inherited a country shaped by those before it and left something behind for those who came after. The next chapter is ours to write.
Project 1602 exists to inspire people who never stop asking questions. We believe curiosity leads to understanding, understanding leads to better conversations, and better conversations help build a stronger future. Because the more we understand America, the better prepared we are to shape what comes next.