National symbols of the United States

File:Bald eagle about to fly in Alaska (2016).jpg (by

Bald eagle about to fly in Alaska (2016) (by

National symbols of the United States are the symbols used to represent the United States of America. These range from the country's flag, anthem, and seal, to its national animals and trees. National symbols are a testament to the country's history, culture, and values. They are recognized both domestically and internationally as icons of the United States.

Flag

The national flag, often referred to as the "Stars and Stripes," consists of thirteen horizontal stripes of red alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton (referred to specifically as the "union") bearing fifty small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows. The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states of the United States of America, and the 13 stripes represent the thirteen British colonies that declared independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain, and became the first states in the U.S.

Seal

The Great Seal of the United States is used to authenticate certain documents issued by the federal government of the United States. The obverse of the seal depicts the national coat of arms of the United States. The bald eagle, the national bird and symbol of the United States, holds a scroll inscribed with the motto E pluribus unum, and in its talons, it holds an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing that the United States has "a strong desire for peace, but will always be ready for war."

Anthem

The national anthem of the United States is "The Star-Spangled Banner." The lyrics come from "Defence of Fort M'Henry," a poem written in 1814 by the lawyer and amateur poet Francis Scott Key after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by British ships in Baltimore Harbor during the War of 1812.

National Bird

The Bald Eagle has been the national bird of the United States since 1782. The bald eagle was chosen because of its long life, great strength, and majestic looks, and also because it was then believed to exist only on the continent of North America.

National Tree

The Oak has been designated as the national tree of the United States. The oak tree is a symbol of strength and endurance. It was selected as the national tree through a vote hosted by the Arbor Day Foundation, reflecting the tree's significance in American culture and history.

National Mammal

The American Bison was designated as the national mammal of the United States in 2016. The bison is an iconic species that once roamed North America in vast herds and is a symbol of the country's natural heritage.

National Motto

"In God We Trust" is the official motto of the United States. It was adopted as the nation's motto in 1956 as a replacement or alternative to the unofficial motto of E pluribus unum, which was adopted when the Great Seal of the United States was created and adopted in 1782.

National Flower

The Rose was designated the official flower and floral emblem of the United States in 1986. The rose is a symbol of love and beauty and is grown in every state, making it a fitting emblem for the country.

Conclusion

National symbols of the United States play a crucial role in representing the values, history, and heritage of the nation. They are a source of pride and unity for the American people, embodying the spirit of the United States and its ideals of freedom, democracy, and perseverance.

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