The Great Seal of the United States
What is the history of the Great Seal of the United States?
Goal:
Goal:
The Great Seal of the United States dates back to the beginning of the nation's history. On July 4, 1776, the job of creating a U.S. seal (for 13 states at that time) was given to Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. The delegates of the Constitutional Convention wanted an emblem, or symbol, to represent their newly independent country. Six years later in 1782, the Great Seal was approved. This is the obverse, or the main symbol, which is used on the national coat of arms. It is also used on official documents, flags, and money. What does each symbol mean? Click the symbols to learn more.
This is the reverse of the Great Seal. You can see this on American money, too. Click on the symbols to learn their meanings.
Can you find the Great Seal of the United States, both the obverse and reverse, on a dollar bill? Every state has its own seal, too. What does your state seal look like? Some state seals are highlighted in this lesson. If your state seal is not included, research it with an adult. What does it look like and what does it symbolize? |