The bald eagle, a symbol of American strength and freedom, has been a part of the country’s history since its founding. In 1782, Charles Thomson, a lesser-known Founding Father, designed the Great Seal of the United States, which features a bald eagle with talons full of arrows and olive branches.

A Symbol of American Resilience

Despite being a symbol of American power, the bald eagle was once on the brink of extinction. However, thanks to conservation efforts and the Endangered Species Act, the species has made a remarkable recovery. Today, there are over 300,000 bald eagles in the United States, and their population continues to grow.

The bald eagle’s recovery is a testament to American persistence and redemption. As Jack E. Davis, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and environmental history professor, said, “The bald eagle still represents us well. Yes, it’s a scavenger and fish robber, but we aren’t perfect ourselves. And what does the bald eagle say about 2026: It’s proven to be a survivor, and so have we — so far.”

Other American Animals

While the bald eagle is an iconic American symbol, other animals have also been considered as the most American. The bison, for example, was once a dominant species in the United States and was nearly driven to extinction. However, thanks to conservation efforts, the bison has made a comeback, and its population is now thriving.

Other animals, such as the Eastern gray squirrel, have also been considered as the most American. However, the bald eagle remains the most iconic and enduring symbol of American strength and freedom.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.