Why Is the Eagle the Symbol of America?

Not everyone wanted the bald eagle to be the national bird.

After a long debate, congress chose the bald eagle to represent the United States in 1782. The eagle appears on the presidential seal, the seal of the United States and various American coins.

History

During the Second Continental Congress of 1775, the delegates decided to adopt a national symbol. However, the only aspect that could be agreed upon was the motto "E pluribus unum." For the next six years, debates occurred as to what the national bird should be. Finally, in 1782, a drawing of the eagle was presented to congress, and congress approved it as the national symbol.

Significance

The eagle was chosen due to its strength and long life-span. The founders hoped to convey a sense of strength and power for the country. Furthermore, the eagle was also chosen because it was mistakenly believed to live exclusively in America.

Fun Fact

Not everyone was pleased with the selection of the eagle as the national symbol for America. Benjamin Franklin proposed that the wild turkey be chosen instead. Franklin argued "the turkey is in comparison a much more respectable bird, and withal a true original native of America."

References

• Washingtonian: A Symbol of America
• American Bald Eagle Information: An American Emblam