How much do you know about America's history? How much do you remember about the men who stood before the country to speak on it?
In honor of the country's 250th anniversary, USA TODAY has put together a quiz to test your knowledge on presidential speeches. Our questions span the entirety of the United States' existence and highlight some of the most impactful moments of the country's history.
Test your knowledge below and learn about the network'slatest student civics contest, launched in partnership with SUNN — a nonprofit organization publishing the nation’s best student journalism and civic media.
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Make Your Speech
Make Your Speech, the second non-partisan contest launched by USA TODAY and SUNN, invites young
Americans to step up to the political podium. We’re asking them to imagine they’ve been elected as president and must deliver their inaugural address in a 2-3 minute video. We want to be inspired, educated and motivated by their agenda for a four-year term — and united across political divides.
This contest is not just an opportunity for the rising generation, but also for adults to learn from the dreams, worries and priorities of young voices that often go unheard.
Quick Contest Facts:
- The contest portal opened for submissions on Sept. 10, 2026, and closes at midnight, Pacific, on Oct. 30, 2026.
- To enter, students or a parent/guardian submit a 2-3 minute video of the student delivering an inaugural presidential address and the written text of the speech via the submissions portal.
- Entrants must be in grades 5-12; a parent/guardian must submit for students aged 12 and younger.
- Entries will be judged in two categories: middle school and high school. Dialog Vanderbilt at Vanderbilt University is providing the monetary awards.
- 1st place winners will receive $1,000.
- 2nd place winners: $750.
- 3rd place: $500.
Krista Johnson covers education and children. Have story ideas or questions? Contact her at kjohnson3@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Can you recognize these famous presidential speeches? Take our quiz













