The adoption of the Great Seal of the United States marked a pivotal moment in the establishment of the nation’s identity. Designed by Charles Thomson in 1782, the seal featured a bald eagle, which is a symbol of strength and freedom, holding a bundle of arrows representing military readiness in one talon and an olive branch symbolizing peace in the other. This emblem captured the dual nature of the new republic’s aspirations: to pursue peace while being prepared for conflict when necessary.

Congress recognized the need for a formal seal to authenticate documents, particularly treaties and other official correspondence. The seal served not only a functional purpose but also embodied the ideals of liberty, justice, and the federal union. Its intricate design included a shield with thirteen stripes, resonant of the original colonies, and a constellation of stars above the eagle, representing the new states united under one government. This symbolism was crucial in fostering a sense of national unity and identity during a time of division and uncertainty post-American Revolution.

The adoption of the Great Seal was a gradual process that involved discussions over design and symbolism for several years. By establishing the Great Seal, Congress hoped to affirm the United States' sovereignty and assert its presence as a legitimate nation on the global stage. The emblem has undergone few changes since its inception, exemplifying the enduring nature of national identity and the principles upon which the United States was founded. Its imagery continues to resonate in various aspects of American life, symbolizing the ideals of democracy and freedom that are central to the nation’s ethos.