The bald eagle, a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for more than 240 years, earned an overdue honor on Christmas Eve: it officially became the country's national bird. President Joe Biden signed legislation concerning the esteemed raptor, flowingly concluding what many felt should have been formal recognition long ago.
The bill, S. 4610, which amends Title 36 of the United States Code, was passed unanimously by Congress, underscoring bipartisan agreement on the matter. The bald eagle is familiar to most Americans, known for its stark white head, yellow beak, and majestic brown body. It has graced the Great Seal of the United States since 1782, appearing on official documents, military insignia, and currency since then.
The significance of the bald eagle extends beyond mere symbolism; it is the national emblem as designated by Congress on the same year the Great Seal was finalized. While the eagle has been widely celebrated, it had never been officially designated as the national bird until this recent legislation. This oversights often baffled both casual observers and historians alike, as many simply assumed it held such status.
The bill emphasizes the eagle’s historical role as a representation of independence and freedom. "Bald eagles are a historical symbol of the United States representing independence, strength, and freedom," notes the congressional findings within the legislation. The bald eagle extends its importance even to Indigenous and Tribal communities across North America, recognized for its sacred presence during various ceremonies and traditions.
Past U.S. leaders, including prominent figures such as Benjamin Franklin, had differing opinions on the eagle's role as the national symbol. Franklin famously expressed concerns about the morality of the eagle, describing it as "a bird of bad moral character." Yet, founding fathers opted for the bald eagle’s fierce disposition to symbolize the nation. It has now become evident why this bird has been ingrained as part of the national identity—its image has inspired cultural festivities, partnerships, and public engagement.
This legislative measure serves primarily to cement what has long been expected and celebrated by many. Interestingly, Minnesota resident Preston Cook, who had long advocated for the formal recognition of the bald eagle, played a significant role in pushing this bill forward. Cook stated, "No one has to change anything; it’s just a correction. It is only a correction in history to make things right and make things the way they should be." His determination reflects not just personal beliefs but the collective aspiration to validate the importance of the bald eagle as not merely emblematic but officially recognized.
Under the newly minted designation, the bald eagle, or Haliaeetus leucocephalus, has found its rightful place among revered national symbols. This change signifies more than mere policy adjustments; it embodies the cultural connections many Americans have to the bird and highlights its standing as one of the remarkable recovery success stories of wildlife conservation.
With its official status now firmly established, the bald eagle's significance will continue to resonate throughout various sectors of society, spanning governmental institutions, educational programs, and public awareness campaigns. The eagle embodies the spirit of resilience—having recovered from the brink of extinction, it now stands as a powerful representation of national pride.
Importantly, the legislation clarifies its influence: the formal acknowledgment of the bald eagle does not change any current federal plans or regulations related to the species. Instead, it seeks to honor its legacy as one which has deeply woven the fabric of American culture, governance, and identity.
On Christmas Eve, as the nation celebrated the holiday, communities across America could also embrace this legislative victory, wrapping it within the broader narrative of unity and celebration of shared history. The eagle's often acknowledged yet unrecognized title as the national bird reflects the heart of the country—a mixture of history, culture, and the vision for generations to come.
Finally, as America moves forward, the bald eagle will not only soar high across the skies but also represent the ideals and aspirations of the nation, both today and for years to come.
