The Journey of the Bald Eagle

How America’s National Bird Was Chosen

The bald eagle, a symbol synonymous with American strength and resilience, wasn’t always the official national symbol of the United States—at least not in a formal legal sense. That changed when President Biden signed a law solidifying the bald eagle as America’s official national bird, finally putting to rest any ambiguity about its status. But what took so long?

As outlined in Smithsonian Magazine, the journey to adopting the bald eagle as a national emblem was anything but straightforward. When the United States declared independence in 1776, Congress tasked a committee—including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin—with designing a national seal. However, the trio struggled to agree on a unified vision. Each man proposed vastly different symbols, ranging from biblical references to classical allegories. After years of attempts by various committees, the responsibility fell to Charles Thomson, Secretary of Congress, who submitted the final design featuring a bald eagle with outstretched wings, clutching arrows and an olive branch.

The decision to select the bald eagle was rooted in its unique and powerful presence. Native to North America, the eagle was seen as a fitting representation of freedom, independence, and might. Its fierce demeanor and ability to soar above challenges resonated with the ideals of a young nation. Yet, not everyone was enamored with the choice. Benjamin Franklin famously criticized the eagle for being a “bird of bad moral character” and argued that the turkey—more industrious and humble—would make a better symbol.

Despite Franklin’s objections, public sentiment gravitated toward the bald eagle. The bird’s regal nature and commanding presence captivated Americans, who began embracing it as an icon of national pride. However, the symbolic designation had never been enshrined in law—until now. President Biden’s decision to formally recognize the bird on Christmas Eve reinforces its status as a permanent symbol of national unity.

This historic step underscores how the symbols we cherish today often have complex backstories. The bald eagle’s rise to fame wasn’t immediate, but its eventual adoption as the national bird—and now its official recognition—demonstrates the enduring power of its representation of strength, freedom, and resilience.

Tom

Tom Osten is retired from the corporate world and living the dream in Crystal Beach with sweetheart Georgia and furry friend, Maezy. He is carrying on the legacy of CrystalBeach.com to promote this very special and unique community.

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