The bald eagle first appeared as a symbol of America in 1776, depicted on a copper cent issued in Massachusetts. At that time, the bald eagle naturally emerged as an important symbol of independence and sovereignty.

In 1782, the Continental Congress officially adopted the bald eagle as part of the National Emblem, believing that the bald eagle, a native eagle species in North America, was suitable as a symbol of an independent nation.

However, not everyone agreed with this choice. Benjamin Franklin criticized the bald eagle as "morally deficient" and proposed the turkey as the national bird, but his suggestion was not accepted. The turkey was considered a more symbolic and suitable animal than the rough-natured bald eagle, but ultimately the eagle was adopted as the national symbol.

The background of how the bald eagle became the symbol of America can be summarized as follows:

Symbolic Meaning: The bald eagle embodies a powerful and brave image, and its ability to soar through the wide sky symbolizes freedom and independence. This made it a fitting symbol representing American values and national identity.

Connection to the American Revolutionary War: The eagle was adopted at a time when the United States needed a symbol for its new nation after the Revolutionary War. It played a symbolic role during significant moments such as the Declaration of Independence and the drafting of the Constitution.

Influence of George Washington: The eagle was adopted by the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, as a symbol representing the nation's independence and strong government. This emphasized America's new identity.

Among the major institutions in the United States, the eagle is included in the emblems of the following:

President of the United States: The presidential seal features the bald eagle prominently. The eagle symbolizes the authority of the president and the strength of the nation.

Department of Defense: The Department of Defense's emblem also includes the bald eagle, symbolizing national defense and military strength.

United States Congress: The official seals of both the Senate and the House of Representatives feature the bald eagle. Notably, the eagle is placed in a symbolic position on the Senate seal, representing the power related to the legislation of the U.S. government.

Seal of the United States: The official national seal of the United States features the eagle. The eagle holds arrows in its right talon and an olive branch in its left, symbolizing war and peace.

U.S. Law Enforcement Agencies: The bald eagle can be seen in the emblems and symbols of many law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, ATF, and CIA. This symbolizes the power to uphold law and order.

U.S. Currency and Coins: The bald eagle is depicted on some U.S. coins and banknotes, serving as a symbol of the nation's strength and independence.

U.S. Navy and Air Force: The eagle is also used in the emblems of the U.S. Navy and Air Force, symbolizing the role of protecting the nation and maintaining sovereignty in the air and sea.

In addition, the bald eagle is used as an important symbol representing the nation's strength and independence in various federal agencies, military, and police forces.