After nearly 250 years, the bald eagle is officially declared the national bird of the United States, following President Biden's signature on a law passed by Congress.
Bald Eagle Receives Official National Bird Designation in the U.S.
Bald Eagle Receives Official National Bird Designation in the U.S.
President Joe Biden formalizes designation of the bald eagle as the national bird, acknowledging its historical significance.
The new legislation marks a historic moment for the bald eagle, which has long been associated with American identity. Although it has featured prominently on the Great Seal since 1782, it was only recently that Congress recognized it with an official designation.
The legislation was championed by Minnesota lawmakers, where significant populations of the bird reside. Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative, noted, "For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't," emphasizing that its deserved recognition is now official.
The bald eagle was chosen for its symbolism of strength, courage, and freedom, standing out as a native North American species. However, not all founding figures agreed on this representation. Benjamin Franklin famously criticized its moral character, suggesting that it should not embody American values.
Despite this dissent, many have viewed the bald eagle as a fitting national symbol, with the Department of Veteran Affairs highlighting its associations with virtue. Its protection under the National Emblem Act of 1940 ensures that hunting or selling the species remains illegal.
Following challenges in population numbers, the bald eagle has experienced a resurgence since 2009, further solidifying its status as a national emblem. Biden's signing of this bill is part of a broader legislative agenda; on Christmas Eve, he enacted multiple pieces of legislation, including efforts to address hazing on university campuses.
The legislation was championed by Minnesota lawmakers, where significant populations of the bird reside. Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative, noted, "For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't," emphasizing that its deserved recognition is now official.
The bald eagle was chosen for its symbolism of strength, courage, and freedom, standing out as a native North American species. However, not all founding figures agreed on this representation. Benjamin Franklin famously criticized its moral character, suggesting that it should not embody American values.
Despite this dissent, many have viewed the bald eagle as a fitting national symbol, with the Department of Veteran Affairs highlighting its associations with virtue. Its protection under the National Emblem Act of 1940 ensures that hunting or selling the species remains illegal.
Following challenges in population numbers, the bald eagle has experienced a resurgence since 2009, further solidifying its status as a national emblem. Biden's signing of this bill is part of a broader legislative agenda; on Christmas Eve, he enacted multiple pieces of legislation, including efforts to address hazing on university campuses.
