June 22, 1942
The Pledge of Allegiance was formally adopted by the United States Congress as the official national pledge.
Washington, D.C., United States | United States Congress
On June 22, 1942, the United States Congress formally adopted the Pledge of Allegiance as the official national pledge. This event marked a significant moment in American history, embedding a sense of unity and patriotism into the fabric of the nation during a time of global conflict.
The Pledge of Allegiance was originally composed in 1892 by Francis Bellamy, a Baptist minister and Christian socialist. It was first published in the youth magazine The Youth’s Companion as part of a campaign to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. The original wording was:
“I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
Over the years, the wording of the Pledge underwent several changes. In 1923, the words “the Flag of the United States of America” were added to ensure that immigrants knew to which flag they were pledging allegiance.
The formal adoption of the Pledge by Congress in 1942 came during World War II, a period when national unity and patriotism were particularly emphasized. The United States was deeply involved in the war effort, and the adoption of the Pledge served as a unifying symbol for the American people.
The adoption was part of the Flag Code, which was a set of guidelines on how to properly display and respect the American flag. The Pledge was included in this code, reflecting its importance as a patriotic expression.
In 1954, during the Cold War, the phrase “under God” was added to the Pledge. This change was influenced by the political climate of the time, as the United States sought to distinguish itself from the atheistic Soviet Union. President Dwight D. Eisenhower supported this addition, which was enacted by Congress on June 14, 1954.
The formal adoption of the Pledge of Allegiance by Congress in 1942 underscored the importance of national unity and patriotism during a critical period in American history. It has since become a staple in American schools and public events, serving as a reminder of the values and principles upon which the United States was founded.
The Pledge continues to be a subject of discussion and debate, particularly regarding its wording and the inclusion of “under God,” reflecting the ongoing dialogue about national identity and values in the United States.
Source: en.wikipedia.org