A United States of America National Emblem is a symbol or visual representation of a country’s identity, values, and history. It is often used on official documents, flags, coins, and other national objects. National Emblems are essential because they help to create a sense of unity and belonging among citizens and represent the country’s ideals to the rest of the world.
History of the United States of America National Emblem
The United States of America has a rich history of national symbols that date back to the country’s founding. The American flag, bald eagle, and the Great Seal of the United States are all well-known symbols of American identity.
Early National Symbols
The first symbol used by the United States was the Great Seal, which was adopted by Congress in 1782. The Great Seal featured an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons, representing the USA’s desire for peace but willingness to defend itself.
The Great Seal of the United States
The Great Seal of the USA is a national symbol used on official government documents, such as passports and presidential proclamations. The seal features a bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons.
The Bald Eagle
The bald eagle is another national symbol of the USA. It was chosen as the national bird in 1782 because of its strength, longevity, and majestic appearance. The bald eagle also represents the country’s freedom and independence.
Design of the United States of America National Emblem
The current United States National Emblem features a shield with 13 red and white stripes representing the original 13 colonies. The shield is supported by a bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons. The eagle’s head faces the olive branch, symbolizing a preference for peace. The eagle’s right talon holds the arrows, representing the country’s readiness to defend itself. The eagle’s left talon holds a banner with the national motto “E Pluribus Unum,” meaning “Out of many, one.”
Significance of the United States of America National Emblem
The United States National Emblem is an important symbol of American identity and values.
Symbol of American Identity
The emblem is a visual representation of the country’s history, culture, and ideals. It is used on official government documents, such as passports and presidential proclamations, and serves as a reminder of what it means to be an American citizen. The emblem also helps to create a sense of unity and belonging among citizens, as it represents the country as a whole.
Representation of American Values
The design of the emblem incorporates various elements that represent American values. The shield with its 13 stripes symbolizes the original 13 colonies that came together to form the United States. The eagle with its head facing the olive branch shows a preference for peace, while the arrows in its talons represent the country’s readiness to defend itself. The banner with the national motto “E Pluribus Unum” represents the country’s diversity and unity.
Use in American Government and Diplomacy
The United States National Emblem is used in official government documents, such as passports, and is often displayed during government ceremonies and events. The emblem is also used in American diplomacy, as it represents the USA’s values and identity to the rest of the world.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between the Great Seal and the National Emblem?
A: The Great Seal is the official seal of the United States, used on official government documents such as presidential proclamations and passports. The National Emblem, on the other hand, is a symbol that represents the United States as a whole.
Q: Can the National Emblem be changed?
A: Yes, the design of the National Emblem can be changed, but it requires an act of Congress to do so.
Q: Why was the Bald Eagle chosen for the National Emblem?
A: The bald eagle was chosen for the National Emblem because of its strength, longevity, and majestic appearance. It also represents the country’s freedom and independence.
Q: What is the significance of the eagle’s head facing the olive branch on the National Emblem?
A: The eagle’s head facing the olive branch on the National Emblem shows a preference for peace.
Q: Why is “E Pluribus Unum” the national motto instead of “In God We Trust”?
A: “E Pluribus Unum” was the first national motto of the United States and represents the country’s diversity and unity. “In God We Trust” was adopted as the national motto in 1956 during the Cold War as a way to distinguish the United States from atheistic communism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the United States National Emblem is an important symbol of identity and values of USA. Its design incorporates various elements that represent the country’s history, culture, and ideals, and it is used in official government documents and events. The National Emblem serves as a reminder of what it means to be an American citizen and helps to create a sense of unity and belonging among citizens.
References
- “The Great Seal of the United States.” U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Public Affairs.
- “The National Emblem of the United States.” U.S. Government Publishing Office.
- “Symbols of the United States Government: National Symbols and Emblems.” USA.gov.
