Design of the Great Seal of the United States

The design of the Great Seal of the United States was initiated by Congress, which appointed a committee consisting of Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. This committee was tasked with creating a symbol that would represent the new nation. Franklin proposed a design that included the motto 'Rebellion to Tyrants is Obedience to God' along with imagery derived from the Book of Exodus, reflecting the values of liberty and resistance against oppression. However, this proposal was not accepted, and the committee's efforts did not culminate in a finalized design at that time. The final design of the Great Seal was established in 1782, incorporating elements that symbolize the United States' sovereignty and ideals. The seal features an eagle, which represents strength and freedom, holding a shield that signifies defense and protection. The eagle is also depicted with a scroll in its beak, inscribed with the motto 'E Pluribus Unum,' meaning 'Out of many, one,' which emphasizes the unity of the states. The Great Seal serves as an important emblem of the United States, used to authenticate documents and signify the authority of the federal government, reflecting the nation's values and history.