Symbols+of+usa

** Early Use of Symbolism in **** America ** ====** In early **** America ****, symbolism was in great use as signs of pride and freedom. They were used as reminders of how **** America **** stands in unity as a strong country. They represent respect and honor towards our representative as well. **Early use of symbolism affected the mindset of early Americans by recognizing the talent some people obtain, and the pride held strongly for our country. ==== One of the many symbols that represent our country is the Great Seal of the U.S.A. The Great Seal came about on the same day the thirteen colonies united to declare themselves an independent nation, July 4th, 1776. The Continental Congress took the next step to demonstrate their independence by creating the Great Seal of the U.S.A. In the six years of revolution, three different committees were submitting ideas for the outcome of the Great Seal. In 1782, after combining ideas throughout the committees, an emblem was chosen, and it hasn’t changed since. This symbol was chosen to represent unity and strength and pride throughout the United States.
 * Molly Farinholt **

 The Great Seal of the U.S.A. has an American eagle in the center of it, representing our country’s bird. The bald eagle shows strength and courage which our country holds. Above the eagle is a circle of clouds surrounding thirteen stars which represent the original thirteen colonies. There are rays emanating from the stars standing for glory. The eagle is holding thirteen arrows and an olive branch which means peace. The shield over the eagle with blue on top and thirteen red and white stripes is there to copy the original American flag. He holds a scroll in his mouth saying, “E Pluribus Unum” meaning “Out of many, One’”.

 The Liberty Bell symbolizes freedom for our country, although, it was not originally made to be a symbol of that. It was made to call the Pennsylvania Assembly to meetings. The bell began to be adopted by abolitionists, suffragists, Native Americans, immigrants, and even the Civil Rights advocates. It soon became a symbol of freedom to all. The great Bell cracked first in 1753 after being rung too many times. It was recast, only to break again on July 8th, 1835. Across the top of the bell it says, “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof Lev. XXV X.” This is quoted from the bible. Under that, it reads, “By order of the assembly of the province of Pennsylvania for the state house in Philad.” Under is inscribed 'Pass and Stow”, which are the last names of the founders who cast the bell. The bell was originally named The State House Bell or the Province Bell. Eventually, through liberty and freedom throughout the abolitionists’ publications, it was named the Liberty Bell. It is now a sign of freedom to all, and of course, liberty.

Another great symbol used in our country is Mount Rushmore. It was made to show our respect and honor for the representatives of our country. The four presidents carved into the rocky mountain were George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These four presidents were the ones chosen to represent the growth, founding, and preservation of the United States. This masterpiece was sculpted by Borglum and four hundred other stone workers. Mount Rushmore was built as a monument to the American ideals that these four presidents represent.

 The Washington Monument was built to honor our first president, George Washington. In 1883, the National Monument Society decided they wanted a proper memorial to honor our first president. It was made in honor for his contributions towards our country and his military leadership. This huge structure was finished by 1884. Its making had stopped for a while due to lack of funds. On the fourth of July in 1848, a contribution and ceremony was given to it. After it was fully made, it stood about 555 feet tall, and was about 15 feet wide at the base and 18 inches wide at the top of it.

 All of these are terrific symbols that were made to represent something in our country. Some of them represented unity, some freedom, respect and honor, and others pride. They show our talent used to symbolize each representation and our dedication. The early Americans held these values and used them to their abilities.

 ** Bibliography **

"Designing the Great Seal of the United States - 1776 to 1782." //Great Seal of the United States -// // Rediscover America's Original Vision //. 2010. Web. 13 Apr. 2011. .

// Symbols of the USA //. Enchanted Learning. Web. 13 Apr. 2011. .

"History of The Liberty Bell." //Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - A Guide to Philadelphia and South Jersey//. Web. 13 Apr. 2011. .

"Symbols of the USA." //Mt. Rushmore National Memorial//. Enchanted Learning. Web. 13 Apr. 2011. <http://www.enchantedlearning.com/history/us/monuments/mtrushmore/>.

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