“E Pluribus Unum” was first featured on the original 1776 design of the Great Seal of the United States and was formally adopted by the U.S. Congress as our nation’s official motto in 1782. The Latin phrase reminds us that from the original 13 colonies emerged a United States of America comprised of diverse people of every creed and culture.
Those affirming allegiance to America, who declared themselves free and embarked on a unique experiment in self-governance “in order to form a more perfect union,” included not only people from nations around the world, but also thousands of free Blacks, Spanish and Indians who were living in this land. Their Declaration was informed by writings and learning experiences from, among others, ancient Greece, Rome, and the Haudenosaunee Senecas, Cayugas, Onondagas, Oneidas and Mohawks — the People of the Long House — and the Magna Carta.
Celebrating Independence Day, I was inspired and encouraged by the outstanding new class of cadets at West Point, the virtual tours of historic Boston, the parades in Boulder and Whitehall, the “Old Glory” program in Helena, and the amazing fireworks displays at the National Mall and all across America.
