How Symbols Reflect and Shape the American Creed

My American Creed:

The U.S. is its own foundation. The Founding Fathers paved a new form of government with the strong ideals of liberty and freedom. The peace of our nation is protected by the patriotism that is so intently woven into the framework of the country. Throughout the duration of America’s growth, pieces of American culture were developed and embody the very essence of patriotism. Undeniably influential American symbols like the American Flag, The Declaration of Independence, The National Anthem, and the Statue of Liberty hold the same truths pure American ideals. Ideals like patriotism, liberty, freedom, and hope are prominent in each corner of The United States of America.

The American Flag. The flag itself has symbolism within its own symbolic collective. Each element carefully thought through represents the bases of America. The thirteen stripes represent the foundation of the thirteen colonies, which started this nation. Each stripe symbolizes the founding pillars, then the stars, representing each of the states now. More than just cloth and color, the flag is a ritual in itself: raised with honor, folded with care, saluted in moments of silence and celebration. It’s flown at schools, funerals, and sporting events, uniting people under shared pride—or sometimes, challenging the nation to do better by the ideals it represents.

Another enduring symbol is the Declaration of Independence. While technically a document, its powerful words “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” have become a guiding light for Americans across generations. These words have been quoted in courtrooms, civil rights movements, and classrooms, reminding citizens that equality is not just a concept but a promise. Though the journey to equality has not been perfect, the Declaration remains a symbol of the American belief that freedom is a right, not a privilege.

The National Anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” is both a patriotic song and a ritual. Standing during the anthem is a shared moment of reflection and unity, often filled with emotion. Originally written after a battle, its lyrics express awe and resilience the kind of spirit that has helped define the American character. And yet, like all powerful symbols, it can be a space for protest too where taking a knee becomes a statement about pushing the nation to live up to its creed. This duality shows how patriotism can be both loyal and critical.

Lastly, the Statue of Liberty stands as a beacon of hope and a welcoming gesture to all seeking a better life. Gifted by France, the statue has come to represent the open-door ideal of the American dream. Its inscription “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free” is more than poetry. It is a national ritual for new Americans arriving to start their lives with hope and dignity. Citizenship ceremonies held beneath its gaze or inspired by its meaning carry the American creed forward through new generations.

In all of these words etched into documents, songs sung, flags lifted high, and statues towering above the sea, America expresses its creed. Symbols and rituals do more than represent what America is; they show what it strives to be. Whether uniting or dividing, comforting or confronting, they invite us to keep questioning, believing, and building a more unique nation.