The phrase “land of the free” is often attributed to American poet and essayist, Ralph Waldo Emerson. In his 1833 “poem of untitled verse,” Emerson wrote: “And this be our motto: ‘In God is our trust.
’ And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!” His phrase became so popular that it was then adopted by Francis Scott Key, the author of the United States national anthem “The Star-Spangled Banner.
” In the fourth stanza of his poem, Key wrote: “Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand Between their loved home and the war’s desolation! Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the heav’n rescued land Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, And this be our motto: ‘In God is our trust’ And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!” From then on, the phrase “land of the free” has been used to refer to the United States as an ideal of freedom, democracy, and justice.
What is Home of the free because of the brave?
Home of the free because of the brave is a phrase that is deeply rooted in American history and culture. It emphasizes and celebrates the freedoms, courage and sacrifices of those who have fought to maintain the United States as a country of liberty, justice and peace.
This phrase is commonly used in patriotic tributes and songs to honor the veterans and others who have bravely served in the military, in law enforcement and as first responders. It is also used frequently in political speeches and other public utterances to emphasize the courage and contributions of all men and women, both currently serving and those who have served and died defending the principles of democracy and freedom.
The phrase is a reminder of the great cost of freedom and honors those who protect the rights and liberties of each American.
When did America become land of the free?
America has become known as a “land of the free” throughout its history. Although the phrase was not widely used until the late 1800s and early 1900s, the idea of freedom and the pursuit of happiness have been part of American life and identity since its birth.
The idea that freedom was an inherent right of the American people dates back to the Founding Fathers and the Declaration of Independence, signed on July 4, 1776. This declaration proclaimed America’s independence from Great Britain and declared “all men are created equal” and are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,” including “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. “.
The American Revolution was fought in part to secure these rights, and although challenges over the centuries have threatened this freedom, the concept of the “land of the free” has been a cornerstone of the nation ever since.
In the years after the Civil War, Nation building and rebuilding were high on the agenda, and President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, delivered November 19, 1863, established a set of ideals for America as a country founded on freedom, justice and equality.
This was further solidified by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms speech, delivered in 1941. In this speech, Roosevelt stated that all person had a fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.
The phrase “land of the free” gained momentum in the post-war era and has become a symbol of America’s commitment to freedom and democracy. As such, while not a succinct timeline, America has been a land of the free since its inception.
Why America is called land of opportunity?
America is often referred to as the “land of opportunity” because of its history as a place where anyone can work hard and succeed, regardless of where they come from or who they are. The United States was founded on the idea that all people are created equal and are entitled to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
” This meant that, unlike in other parts of the world, immigrants had a chance to make something of themselves — to work hard and make a better life for themselves and their families.
Throughout America’s history, many people have taken advantage of this opportunity, even when it was not always easy. Over the centuries, different waves of immigrants have come to the United States seeking a better life.
Many of them have gone on to achieve great success — from inventors like Alexander Graham Bell and Andrew Carnegie, to entrepreneurs like Andrew Mellon and Steve Jobs, to politicians like the Roosevelts and Kennedys.
At its core, the American Dream is about empowering individuals to make the most of their aspirations and passions. This idea is enshrined in the U. S. Constitution and its Bill of Rights, which guarantee a certain level of liberty and justice for all.
This has enabled a culture that allows anyone to pursue their ambitions and dreams, making America the land of opportunity.
What does o’er mean in modern English?
O’er is a shortened version of the English word “over,” and is used in modern English in much the same way. For example, a common phrase using o’er is “o’er the hill,” meaning over a hill or past a difficult point.
It is also used to replace the word “about” in many cases, such as “o’er the sea” meaning “about the sea. ” In poetry and literature, o’er is sometimes used instead of over in order to make the language more lyrical, though in most conversational English, over would be the preferred choice.
Does Home of the Brave refer to Native Americans?
No, Home of the Brave does not refer to Native Americans. The phrase “Home of the Brave” is the last line of the national anthem of the United States, and the song uses the phrase to refer to the United States of America as the ‘home’ of brave citizens who are willing to fight for the freedom of their country.
People sometimes use the phrase “Home of the Brave” to refer to anyone who is willing to put their lives on the line for their country. The phrase is not necessarily exclusive to Native Americans, as it includes anyone who is willing to demonstrate bravery in the face of danger.
What freedoms do American have?
Americans have multiple freedoms that are outlined in the Bill of Rights, which is part of the United States Constitution. These freedoms include the freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, and petition.
Americans also have the right to bear arms and the right to a fair trial. Additionally, they possess the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure and cruel and unusual punishment. Finally, the right to privacy is also present, giving citizens the right to control the dissemination of personal information, though there are some exceptions to this.
The United States also has numerous Amendments to the Constitution that expand upon the basic freedoms outlined by the Bill of Rights. These freedoms include due process, equal protection under the law, and just compensation for government taking of property.
In addition to these protections, the U. S. government guarantees citizens’ rights to vote, medical treatment, education, and freedom from discrimination.
In conclusion, there are numerous freedoms that American citizens possess, from the freedoms outlined in the Bill of Rights to the additional Amendments that expand upon these rights. These freedoms are guaranteed by the Constitution and are an integral part of American identity.
Is Memorial Day just for those who died in war?
No, Memorial Day is not just for those who died in war. It is a day to honor anyone who has died in active military service, regardless of the cause of death. It is also a day to recognize other veterans and members of the U. S.
Armed Forces who are still living. In addition, many people use Memorial Day to remember and honor family members, friends, and other loved ones who have passed away. Many people also use the holiday to learn about our nation’s history and reflect on the significance of Memorial Day.
Who do we honor on Memorial Day and why?
We honor those who died while serving in the U. S. Armed Forces on Memorial Day. This includes soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen who died while serving the United States in time of conflict.
On the grounds of their ultimate sacrifice, we remember them and honor their service on this day. It’s our patriotic duty to remember not only their contribution to the nation, but also the families they left behind.
Memorial Day also provides us with an opportunity to express our gratitude to all who have bravely served and preserved our freedom. This solemn occasion helps to bring people together in commemoration of those who have given their lives in the line of duty.
What should you not do on Memorial Day?
On Memorial Day, it is important to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Therefore, it is important to respect the gravity and significance of the holiday, which is why there are certain activities that should not take place on Memorial Day.
Some of the things you should definitely not do on Memorial Day are take part in any kind of disrespectful behavior, including offensive language, gambling, loud behavior, or rowdy activities. You should also not use the day to engage in recreational activities, such as having parties, going to BBQs, or going to the beach or park.
Instead, honor the day and take part in respectful activities like visiting memorial parks or monuments, attending religious services, and even participating in a moment of silence.
Is it OK to say Happy Memorial Day?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to say “Happy Memorial Day”! Memorial Day is a national holiday in the United States, observed on the last Monday in May, to remember and honor those who have died while serving in the U. S.
Armed Forces. While it is also a day for solemn reflection and to pay our respects for those who have given their lives in service of our country, “Happy Memorial Day” is commonly used as a way to commemorate the day and recognize its importance.
What is difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?
Memorial Day and Veterans Day are both holidays in the United States that honor the service of members of the military. However, each holiday holds different significance. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died while serving in the military.
This day is usually observed on the last Monday of May and is marked by parades, fly overs, ceremonies, and religious services.
Veterans Day on the other hand is a public holiday observed on November 11th each year and it honors all who have served in the military. This day is typically celebrated with parades and other ceremonies.
While it is not a day to commemorate those who gave their lives in service, it is a day to celebrate the courage, commitment, patriotism, and sacrifice of all veterans.
What President started Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States and is observed annually on the last Monday of May. It is a day for honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
While there were a number of towns and cities in the United States that celebrated some form of Memorial Day as early as 1866, it was not officially declared a national holiday until 1971.
The day is widely credited as having been officially established by General John A. Logan, leader of the Union veterans’ organization called the Grand Army of the Republic. In May 1868, General Logan declared that Decoration Day would be observed annually and nationwide on May 30.
It was on that day that flowers would be placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.
General Logan’s proclamation declared: “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land.
” Therefore, General Logan is often credited with having started Memorial Day, although he was not president at the time.
What are 5 facts about Memorial Day?
1. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May. It was originally known as Decoration Day and was first observed in 1868 to honor those lost in the Civil War.
2. It is believed that the first celebrations of Memorial Day took place at the end of the Civil War in April of 1865 by former slaves in Charleston, South Carolina.
3. During Memorial Day, the US Flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon.
4. It is a custom to place flags or flowers on the graves of the fallen. Often Memorial Day services and events include offering gratitude to fallen veterans and their families.
5. Since 1971, Memorial Day is officially designated as the national day of remembrance for all members of the US Armed Forces who have died in the service of their country. Typically, commemorative events such as parades, boat races, and marches take place in most cities and towns across the United States.