The Eiffel Tower was illuminated on Friday (July 3) evening to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence, which falls on Saturday (July 4). Giant illuminated letters spelling out "US 250" adorned Paris' iconic landmark. France has been one of the closest allies of the U.S. throughout its history, starting from supporting the revolutionaries in the Thirteen Colonies against Great Britain. The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom in the U.S., was built and gifted to the country by France in 1886. Show more Show less