National Day

Pledge Of Allegiance Day

Celebrated on 12/28/2026

Quick Fact

The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy, a socialist minister, to promote patriotism and sell flags. It was first recited in public schools during the Columbus Day celebration that year. The phrase 'under God' was added in 1954 during the Cold War.

Origins and Establishment of Pledge Of Allegiance Day

Pledge of Allegiance Day is observed on December 28, the birthday of Francis Bellamy, who authored the Pledge in 1892. Bellamy, a Baptist minister and Christian socialist, originally wrote the Pledge for the Youth's Companion magazine as part of a campaign to sell American flags to public schools. The first official recitation occurred on October 12, 1892, during the 400th anniversary of Columbus's arrival in the Americas. The holiday was informally established by patriotic groups and later recognized by presidential proclamations.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, the Pledge has undergone several changes. The original text did not include 'under God'—that phrase was added by Congress in 1954 amid anti-communist sentiment. The Bellamy salute (right hand outstretched) was replaced by the hand-over-heart gesture during World War II due to its resemblance to Nazi salutes. Today, Pledge of Allegiance Day is celebrated with recitations in schools, government meetings, and civic events, often accompanied by flag ceremonies and educational programs about patriotism.

Facts & General Observations

  • The Pledge is recited by millions of schoolchildren each day, but its mandatory recitation has been challenged in courts, with the Supreme Court ruling in 1943 (West Virginia v. Barnette) that students cannot be forced to say it.
  • The original Pledge did not mention the United States by name; it referred to 'my flag.' The phrase 'the flag of the United States of America' was added in 1923.
  • A 2018 poll found that 53% of Americans could recite the Pledge correctly from memory, while 22% could not recall the words 'under God.'

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