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.