What America Ranks No. 1 In

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As the Fourth of July approaches, we prepare to celebrate the country’s independence with fireworks, family barbecues and picnics, community events such as parades, fairs, concerts, and of course, baseball games.

It was actually on July 2nd , 1776, that the Continental Congress voted in favor of Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee's motion calling for the colonies’ independence. Two days later, on July 4th, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the historic Declaration of Independence -- penned largely by Thomas Jefferson. And on Sept. 9, 1776, the Second Continental Congress adopted a new name for the "United Colonies” -- United States of America. Thus began The Great Experiment.

And the experiment is not over -- the Great American Experiment has been a work in progress since the nation's founding. The U.S. had to overcome many challenges, including wars, economic depressions, and even a civil war. But the U.S. has prevailed and also recorded many successes, progresses, and advances.

Indeed, the republic has grown in size and influence. It has become a model to many nations and has often led the global community. Its economic and military clout are second to none, as are its contribution to science, health, entertainment, sports, and other areas. Of course, America also struggles in some areas. And so the Great Experiment continues.

To find the areas America ranks No. 1 in, 24/7 Wall St. searched for measures in which the U.S. ranks first. Any measure in which the U.S. ranks high -- even second or third -- but not first, was not included. We tried to have measures in diverse areas, but of course, the list is far from complete -- especially considering all the different nuances possible. (Also see: These 25 Countries Are Exporting the Most Weapons .)

Why are we covering this

Ahead of Independence Day, we thought it was a good time to take stock of how the U.S. is doing globally, in relation to other nations, in different fields. The U.S. is certainly the best -- and the worst -- in some areas.

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