In a significant move to solidify the national identity of the United States, President Joe Biden has signed into law a historic bill officially designating the Bald Eagle as the national bird of the United States. This legislation, which amends the U.S. code to provide formal recognition to the iconic symbol, reflects the nation’s deep-rooted connection to the majestic bird, a long-standing emblem of American ideals and sovereignty.
The Bald Eagle, long celebrated as a symbol of freedom, strength, and resilience, has now been officially recognized as the national bird, cementing its place as an enduring symbol of the nation’s history and values. This legal designation comes after years of bipartisan efforts spearheaded by Minnesota Representatives Brad Finstad (R) and Angie Craig (D), Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), alongside Preston Cook, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center.
The passing of this bill is the culmination of a collective effort to honor the Bald Eagle’s historical role in shaping U.S. identity. As Preston Cook stated, “The Bald Eagle has symbolized American ideals since its placement on the Great Seal in 1782. With this legislation, we honor its historic role and solidify its place as our national bird and an emblem of our national identity.”
Before this official recognition, the Bald Eagle had served as an unofficial symbol of the United States, proudly displayed on the Great Seal, military insignia, and the flag of the president. Its image has adorned the one-dollar bill and other prominent national symbols. However, until this momentous legislation, the eagle had never been formally declared the national bird under U.S. law.
The bill to legally recognize the Bald Eagle comes at a time of renewed environmental and conservation efforts, as the population of the American Bald Eagle has seen a remarkable resurgence. Since 2009, the eagle population has quadrupled, reflecting both successful conservation measures and the bird’s enduring significance to the American public.
“This designation is not just about preserving the image of the Bald Eagle, but also about honoring its remarkable recovery and the commitment of Americans to protect our natural heritage,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “The Bald Eagle’s revival is a testament to the power of conservation and the resilience of this nation.”
While the Bald Eagle’s image has been an inseparable part of the U.S. identity, it has not been without its critics. Notably, Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation’s Founding Fathers, once expressed disapproval of the bird’s selection, calling it “a bird of bad moral character” in a letter to his daughter. Nevertheless, the eagle has withstood the test of time, and its image continues to inspire pride in generations of Americans.
The legislation, which was signed by President Biden on Christmas Eve, is a monumental moment in American history. By codifying the Bald Eagle as the national bird, the U.S. has not only affirmed its commitment to the conservation of this majestic species but also strengthened its symbolic ties to the ideals of liberty, strength, and unity.
As we look to the future, the Bald Eagle remains a powerful reminder of the values upon which the United States was founded—values that continue to inspire Americans today.
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