What the US flag, Liberty Bell, and bald eagle teach students about freedom

Every July 4, Americans across the country celebrate their nation’s independence with festivities that prominently feature the US flag, the Liberty Bell, and the bald eagle. These symbols, deeply embedded in the country’s history and culture, carry lessons that extend beyond mere decoration.

For students, they offer a window into the ideals, struggles, and complexities of the American story.Though often taken for granted, each symbol encapsulates rich narratives that challenge students to reflect on freedom, unity, and resilience. Understanding their origins and meanings can deepen appreciation for the ongoing journey of the US as a nation.The US flag: Unity and changeThe US flag, with its stars and stripes, is more than a colourful banner.

Originally designed during the Revolutionary War, it symbolised the unity of the thirteen colonies against British rule. The thirteen stripes represent these founding colonies, while the stars on the blue canton represent the 50 states in the Union today.For students, the flag embodies a story of both unity and evolution. As the nation expanded, so did the flag’s stars, symbolising inclusion and growth. Yet, the flag has also been a site of controversy — from protests during the civil rights era to debates over flag burning — reminding students that national symbols can inspire both pride and critical reflection.

The liberty bell: A call to freedomThe Liberty Bell, housed in Philadelphia, is famed for its crack and the legend that it rang to mark the first reading of the Declaration of Independence. Though the exact moment of its historic toll remains debated, the bell endures as a powerful symbol of liberty and justice.Students learn that the bell was used to summon lawmakers and citizens alike, signifying the democratic principles at the nation’s core.

Over time, it became a symbol of abolition and civil rights movements, teaching that freedom is a cause that requires vigilance and action.The bald eagle: Strength and independenceAdopted as the national bird in 1782, the bald eagle represents strength, courage, and independence. Its choice was deliberate — the eagle’s soaring flight symbolises the nation’s aspirations, while its fierce nature reflects resilience.However, students also discover that the eagle’s journey mirrors the US itself. The bird faced near extinction in the 20th century due to habitat loss and pesticides, only to recover through conservation efforts. This recovery story teaches lessons about responsibility and renewal, urging students to protect both their heritage and environment.Symbols as living lessonsFor students across the US, these icons are not relics of a distant past but living lessons. They encourage critical thinking about history, identity, and civic duty. As President Trump’s administration continues to influence the nation’s discourse on patriotism and immigration, understanding these symbols becomes all the more vital.

July 4 thus offers more than celebration. It invites students to explore the values, contradictions, and hopes embodied by the US flag, the Liberty Bell, and the bald eagle — a reminder that freedom is a work in progress.