Our National Anthem
Part of the American Symbols series
If you love your country, sing! Since 1931, "The Star-Spangled Banner" has been the national anthem of the United States. Journey back to 1814, and join Francis Scott Key, the man who wrote the words to the anthem, for a close look at this song of freedom.
The Bald Eagle
Part of the American Symbols series
This strong and beautiful bird is a symbol for an entire country. It is the bald eagle, and Americans made it their national emblem more than 200 years ago. Join Bill the bird keeper to see how this bird lives and how it became a symbol of the United States.
Our U.S. Capitol
Part of the American Symbols series
The U.S. Capitol houses both the Congress and Senate, but do you know its history? This building, which stands as a symbol of freedom and democracy, took more than 30 years to build. It has survived through wars, and has had many changes and additions. Join a tour guide and learn more about the U.S. capitol.
Uncle Sam
Part of the American Symbols series
He has become one of the country's most well-known characters. Tall and firm, Uncle Sam stands for a strong U.S. government. Join meatpacker Sam Wilson in Uncle Sam as he shares the wild story of how he, a clown, and countless artists shaped this American symbol.
The U.S. Supreme Court
Part of the American Symbols series
Since our nation's birth, the Supreme Court has been the highest court in the United States. But until 1935, it didn't have a building of its own. Join a lawyer named Marta in The U.S. Supreme Court as she follows the court's long journey to its final home in Washington, D.C.
The Bill of Rights
Part of the American Symbols series
Which freedoms do Americans hold most dear? The Bill of Rights is a list of important freedoms shared by everyone in the United States. Join President James Madison to find out how the Bill of Rights came to be. Also, discover what it means to people today.
The Pledge of Allegiance
Part of the American Symbols series
Many kids say the Pledge of Allegiance every day in school. But what does it mean and where did it come from? Francis Bellamy wrote it more than 100 years ago. Join Bellamy in The Pledge of Allegiance for more of the story.
The U.S. Constitution
Part of the American Symbols series
It's 1787, and a handful of men are about to sign the United States Constitution. In a few minutes, a newly free country will have a set of rules made by the people, for the people. Join lawmaker James Madison as he picks up a pen and makes history.
The Statue of Liberty
Part of the American Symbols series
The Statue of Liberty is the tallest woman in the United States and one of the country's most beloved symbols of freedom. Listen as park ranger Jeanetta tells the amazing story of Lady Liberty's journey in 1885 from France to New York Harbor.
The Declaration of Independence
Part of the American Symbols series
The Declaration of Independence is an American symbol that helps citizens define their rights. Join Thomas Jefferson as he introduces the story of the creation of the famous document he wrote, the Declaration of Independence.
Ellis Island
Part of the American Symbols series
During the late 1800s, 1.5 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island in New York. Find out the history of the immigration station and what immigrants had to go through before entering the United States. You'll soon discover why Ellis Island is considered to be a symbol of freedom and the "American Dream."
Our American Flag
Part of the American Symbols series
Its stars and stripes ripple and wave. It's the United States flag, and Americans have flown it for more than 200 years. Join seamstress Mary Pickersgill for a trip through time to see how this symbol of freedom came to be.
The White House
Part of the American Symbols series
From the early 1800s, American presidents and their families have called the White House home. But as secret service agent Keneesha explains, the White House is more than just a place to live; it's also the president's office and one of the country's greatest symbols of leadership.
The Great Seal of the United States
Part of the American Symbols series
How do Americans know that government papers are real? If you see an eagle holding a shield, and a pyramid with an eye above it, the papers are not fakes. Listen to Benjamin Franklin as he talks about the birth of the Great Seal in 1782 and why it's still so important to our country today.
The Lincoln Memorial
Part of the American Symbols series
The Lincoln Memorial honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. It also stands today as a symbol of unity and freedom. Why does it stand for these things? Join a tour guide and learn more about the creation and importance of the Lincoln Memorial.
The Liberty Bell
Part of the American Symbols series
Why do Americans love a bell that no longer rings? It is the Liberty Bell, and it once rang to announce the birth of a new country, the United States. Find out why Americans still treasure the bell, along with its famous crack.
Angel Island
Part of the American Symbols series
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, nearly 1 million immigrants were processed at the Angel Island immigration station. Although Angel Island was also called The Gateway to the West, for some it became the place that kept them out of the United States. Find out what immigrants had to go through at Angel Island and discover why today Angel Island stands as a symbol of hope and struggle.
Mount Rushmore
by Thomas Kingsley Troupe
Part of the American Symbols series
Four U.S. presidents forever stare out across the Black Hills of South Dakota. Join a park ranger as he introduces the story of the creation and importance of Mount Rushmore.