The bald eagle is now officially the national bird of the United States, nearly 250 years after its symbolic role began. President Joe Biden signed the law on Christmas Eve, making the designation official.
Although the bald eagle has been a symbol of the nation since 1782, appearing on the Great Seal of the United States, it was never formally declared as the national bird until now. This decision came after Congress passed a bill, which was later approved by President Biden.
Historically, not everyone supported the bald eagle’s role as a national symbol. Benjamin Franklin criticized the choice, calling it a “bird of bad moral character.” Despite this, the bald eagle has long been seen as a representation of strength, freedom, and courage.
The new legislation was spearheaded by lawmakers from Minnesota, a state with one of the largest bald eagle populations in the country. The bird has been protected under U.S. law since 1940 to ensure its survival and conservation.
This official recognition further solidifies the bald eagle’s place as a cherished symbol of America’s values and heritage, marking an important moment in the country’s history.
