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The Pledge of Allegiance has been modified several times since it was first written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy. The short and to the point pledge was designed to be delivered in less than 15 seconds. Bellamy hoped it would help Americans display solidarity and national pride. President Benjamin Harrison agreed and after a proclamation was first recited in public schools on October 12, 1892.
Historical Wording:
Original 1892 wording:
I pledge allegiance to my flag and the republic for which it stands: one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
First Revision 1892 – 1923
I pledge allegiance to my flag and to the republic for which it stands: one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Note the addition of the word “to” before the republic.
Second Revision 1923 – 1924
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States and to the republic for which it stands: one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Note the removal of the word “my” prior to flag, replaced with “the” and the addition of “of the United States” after the word flag.
Third Revision 1924 – 1954
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands: one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
Note the additional words “of America” after United States.
Current Version 1954 – Present
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands: one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Note the additional words “under God” after one nation.
September 28, 2009 at 10:08 am |
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