Words, Symbols, and Rituals

John Finley

Mr. Grossman

AP Gov

5/31/22

Words, Symbols, and Rituals

In America, the first amendment allows us to express our American Creeds. Whether that's through words, symbols, or rituals, it will always be expressed. Today I am going to talk about a few examples of how Americans express their American Creed through words, symbols, or rituals.

Freedom of speech is a necessity to every citizen of America. A few words that represent the American Creed are freedom, hope, and pride. Freedom because everyone in America has it. No one in America should be robbed of their freedom, and the government does its best in trying to prevent that. My next word is hope because everyone is hopeful that they will achieve the american dream. Hope is everywhere and everyone wishes to succeed. My final word is pride because one thing Americans know how to do is show love to our country.

Throughout American history there have been many symbols representing our country and I would like to touch on a few. The bald eagle, being the national animal, represents freedom. The bald eagle has been our national animal for hundreds of years and I am certain that will never change. Another symbol is the American flag, with 50 stars to represent the 50 states, and the 13 stripes representing the 13 colonies, it is America's most obvious and used symbol.

There are many rituals Americans participate in but I will only be touching on the biggest. The pledge of allegiance, something we say every monday, is a pledge that most know by heart. Another common ritual that most Americans know is the national anthem. Before American sporting events, the national anthem is played for everyone to hear. However, those are not as popular as what's known as America's holiday, the 4th of July. On this day, Americans celebrate their country with barbecues, picnics, and fireworks. A ritual all citizens can get behind.

American Creed is constantly expressed through words, symbols and rituals, and those are really the only ways to express it in my opinion. Some may think it's a bad thing, others may find it brings them closer together. One thing is for certain: Americans love their country and want to show their love.