The bald eagle, a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for over two centuries, has finally received the recognition it deserves. On Tuesday, President Joe Biden signed legislation passed by Congress officially designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States.
Recognizable by its white head, yellow beak, and brown body, the bald eagle has been a prominent symbol in American history. It has been featured on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782, alongside other national symbols such as the olive branch, arrows, and the motto 'E Pluribus Unum'.
In 1782, Congress designated the bald eagle as the national emblem, leading to its widespread use in official documents, the presidential flag, military insignia, and even on US currency. Despite its ubiquitous presence in American iconography, the bald eagle had never been officially recognized as the national bird until now.
The bald eagle, indigenous to North America, holds a special place in the hearts of Americans as a symbol of freedom, courage, and resilience. Its majestic presence in the wild and its significance in American culture make it a fitting choice for the national bird of the United States.