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What If the Turkey Were Our National Symbol?
In the late 18th century, as the founding fathers deliberated over the design of the United States’ great seal, they ultimately chose the majestic bald eagle. However, Benjamin Franklin famously argued for the wild turkey as a more fitting national symbol. Though he lost this debate, one can’t help but wonder how different our national identity might have been had Franklin prevailed.
Consider the implications of adopting the turkey over the eagle. Would our Thanksgiving traditions be as festive? Would we view the turkey as an emblem of strength, or perhaps even use it in playful insults? The choice of our national symbol could have profound effects on our cultural practices and perceptions.
Moreover, let’s examine the broader impact of national symbols on our character. The bald eagle, a predator, embodies traits of dominance and power. In contrast, the turkey is a forager, more aligned with peace and nurturing. Would this shift from a hunter to a forager have influenced our national ethos, perhaps altering our views on Manifest Destiny or military interventions in the 20th and 21st centuries?
Additionally, our national colors, red, white, and blue, were chosen partly due to their resemblance to the British flag. Over the years, these colors have come to symbolize various virtues. For instance, Charles Thompson, Secretary of the Continental Congress, described white as representing purity, red as valor, and blue as vigilance. If our symbols had different meanings, could the white have represented gratitude for our natural resources, or could the blue symbolize harmony with other nations?
Furthermore, consider our national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which originated as a military song during the War of 1812. Its martial lyrics may shape our national character. Would we have cultivated a different identity had we adopted a more peaceful song like “God Bless America,” written later in 1918 by Irving Berlin?
It’s possible that our symbols are arbitrary and shaped by those in power, lacking any real influence on our self-perception as Americans. However, it’s intriguing to think about the alternate paths we could have taken. Interestingly, Franklin’s initial preference was not the turkey but the rattlesnake, which he believed embodied the spirit of America.
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In summary, the choice of national symbols, from animals to colors and anthems, can profoundly influence our culture and identity. The exploration of these symbols encourages us to reflect on how they shape our values and actions as a nation.