June 20 in American History

June 20, 1782 — the Great Seal of the United States is adopted

Congress approved the Great Seal — the bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, above the motto "E Pluribus Unum," out of many, one. Six years in the making, it distilled the new nation's self-image into a single emblem: peaceful but ready, and above all, unified out of diversity. It still seals the nation's most solemn documents.

Common Questions

What happened on June 20 in American history?

In 1782: the Great Seal of the United States is adopted. Congress approved the Great Seal — the bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, above the motto "E Pluribus Unum," out of many, one.

Why is June 20 significant?

Congress approved the Great Seal — the bald eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, above the motto "E Pluribus Unum," out of many, one. Six years in the making, it distilled the new nation's self-image into a single emblem: peaceful but ready, and above all, unified out of diversity. It still seals the nation's most solemn documents.

The Daily Poll · Weigh In

What does "out of many, one" mean to you?

Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.

★ Forge Your Freedom

Get One of These Every Day

The FreedomMaxxing Daily Brief pairs a history moment like this with what's on your radar today and a live patriot poll — free, 60 seconds.

Take the Free Assessment
Juneteenththe Constitution is ratified