June 20 is American Eagle Day, a celebration that commemorates the date in 1782 when the bird was added to the Great Seal of the United States, effectively becoming a national symbol. With an olive branch in its right talons and a bundle of 13 arrows in its left (representing the 13 original states in the Union), the eagle is said to represent a strong desire for peace, but readiness for conflict. You’ll likely recognize the Great Seal of the United States from its appearance on passports, flags, official documents, and American currency. The bald eagle, now federally protected, continues to inspire national pride.
In celebration of America’s national bird
Today in History
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Rocks on the move
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National Hummingbird Day
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A growing business
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Working for that cliffside view
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International Museum Day
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Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park, Washington
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The old guard at Old San Juan
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Here comes summer
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Stepping into autumn
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Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel in Arkansas
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The Unfinished Obelisk near Aswan, Egypt
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Autumn comes to Old Town
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Gemsbok in Namibian sand dunes
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Temple of Philae, Aswan, Egypt
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Belgium celebrates its independence
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Leap day
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Honoring the first American woman in space
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Farmers Day
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Mount Logan in Yukon, Canada
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World Art Day
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200th anniversary of Brazilian independence
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Mona Vale Rockpool, Sydney, Australia
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Telašćica Nature Park, Dugi Otok, Croatia
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Fall Astronomy Week
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Celebrating Flag Day: ‘O long may it wave’
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Nothing plain about it
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Patriot Day
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A legend and a legendary home
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World Water Day
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Zion National Park Turns 100