America in Symbols

The bald eagle
            The bald eagle is a living symbol of the United States.  It is found only in North America.  Its white head feathers make it appear as if it is bald.  But the name "bald eagle" comes from an old word, piebald, which means marked with white. 
            The bald eagle became our national symbol in 1782.  Our founding fathers wanted a bird that symbolized strength, courage and freedom.
The rose
            The rose became our national flower just 25 years ago.  President Ronald Reagan signed the resolution in the Rose Garrden at the White House.
The White House
            The White House is a symbol of our president and our elected government.  It is among the most famous buildings in the world.
             Every president has lived in the White House except George Washington.  Construction began in October 1792, and the building was ready in November 1800, when John Adams was president.
            In 1814, the British burned the White House, but it was rebuilt.
            The president's office is called the Oval Office.  The president's family lives on the upper two floors of the White House.
The Liberty Bell
             The Liberty Bell was originally made in England for the Pennsylvania State House.  It was rung when the Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
              The first bell from England cracked; a second bell also cracked.  This third one, made by John Pass and John Stowe, also began to crack in the mid-1800s.
              Today, the bell is still rung gently on Independence Day in Philadelphia.
The Great Seal of the United States
              Our founding fathers believed the new country needed a seal to show our independence and hopes for the future.  In 1782, a seal was approved .
               It includes:
               * a scroll that says "E" pluribus unum," or "Out of many,
                  one"
               * an olive branch to symbolize peace
               * a bald eagle
               * arrows to symbolize war
              How many parts of the seal include 13 items?
              Answer: Five parts : 13 olive leaves, arrow points, stars, stripes, and letters in "E pluribus unum."