Symbols of America

I was inspired to write Symbols of America, as I know many immigrants who have come to my country, and citizenship and knowledge about these topics were important to them. This book will be valued as a learning resource and reinforcement for learning about the many historical and cultural Symbols of America, compiled into a single book. The book would be a nice complement to learning programs, or perhaps a presentation piece to schools, libraries which you visit, or friends you have come to know. All the things every American should know about Symbols of America, compiled into a single resource, in a referenced and easy to read format.

When we think of American symbols, images of the bald eagle, Lady Liberty, and the Stars and Stripes immediately spring to mind. But the stories behind our nation's iconic images and objects run far deeper than these surface representations. They are intricately woven through the harsh realities, hard-won victories, and scrappy inspirations experienced by early pioneers in carving out a new society.

In this collection of historical vignettes, the rich origins and meanings behind America's most powerful symbols are brought to life through beautifully rendered narratives and images. At their core, the seminal symbols explored emerge directly from the everyday struggles, moments of revelation, and pursuits.

The 18th Century was a formative period for the creation of symbols and emblems that would come to represent American ideals and identity. One of the most iconic symbols to emerge during this time was the American flag. Initially designed with 13 stripes and 13 stars to represent the original colonies, the flag became a powerful emblem of unity and independence. Its design has evolved over the centuries, but the core symbolism of liberty and national pride has endured, making it a timeless representation of the United States.

Another significant symbol that took root in the 18th Century was the bald eagle. Adopted as the national bird in 1782, the bald eagle was chosen for its majestic appearance and representation of strength, freedom, and resilience. The eagle features prominently in the Great Seal of the United States, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, symbolizing the nation’s commitment to peace and readiness for defense. This imagery encapsulates the dual aspirations of the young republic: to foster harmony while standing prepared to protect its sovereignty.

Additionally, symbols such as the Liberty Bell and the Statue of Liberty (though the latter was a 19th-century addition) began to take on profound significance. The Liberty Bell, originally cast in 1752, became an enduring icon of American independence, particularly after it was associated with the Declaration of Independence. Its famous crack and the inscription "Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof" have made it a poignant symbol of the struggle for freedom and justice. These symbols, rooted in the 18th Century, have continued to inspire and unite Americans, reflecting the core values and aspirations of the nation.

Download the flysheet

Book Prsented to TN State Representative

On December 7, 22024, the Honorable Clay Dogget, of the Tennessee State House of Representatives, District 7, visited the Joseph Greer House. The Dogget family and many members of the Camp Blount Historical Site Association (CBHSA) were on hand as well. The three siblings of the Gill family, special members of the CBHSA, as it was their family farm where the original Joseph Greer House was located.

My recently published book "Symbols of America - An American Creation" was presented to Representative Dogget and his family with best wishes for the Holiday Season and enjoyment of the book.

Paul Henry from the Elk Valley Times cam to take pictures of the event, and the following photographs are credited to him.

All of those in attendance were very pleased with the extraordinary structure at Camp Blount is finally being realized. CBHSA members discussed the other near term efforts for the House of the Messenger.

Rick Laws, presenting Mr. Dogget a copy of the book - Symbols of America - An American Creation

Members of the Dogget family, city/county/state governments, CBHSA members

For more news of the upcoming book House of the Messenger, see this link.
https://houseofthemessenger.blogspot.com/

Press Release - Symbols of America

88PressRelease

"Symbols of America" Brings the Nation’s Iconic Emblems to Life with Powerful Historical Insights Tennessee – [Date] – A new book, Symbols of America, is set to captivate readers with its deep exploration into the origins and significance of the most recognizable symbols of the United States. From the bald eagle to the Stars and Stripes, this collection of historical vignettes offers an insightful, richly illustrated journey through the symbols that have come to define the American experience.

The book delves beyond the surface meanings of American emblems, shedding light on the often overlooked stories of struggle, triumph, and inspiration that shaped these national icons. Through beautifully crafted narratives and striking imagery, Symbols of America uncovers how these symbols reflect the harsh realities faced by the early pioneers and the principles they fought to uphold as they forged a new society.

Author Rick Laws was inspired to write Symbols of America after witnessing the passion and curiosity of many immigrants in the U.S. who sought a deeper understanding of their adopted country’s history. As an educational resource, the book serves as a valuable tool for those eager to learn about the nation's symbols, their history, and cultural significance. It’s designed not only as an enriching read for individuals but also as a potential companion for learning programs, classrooms, and libraries.

"Symbols of America" is an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand what these enduring icons truly represent and how they relate to the everyday struggles and victories that have shaped the nation. The book aims to be an accessible, informative, and thought-provoking addition to any library. In a special collaboration, all proceeds from the sale of Symbols of America will benefit the Tennessee Society, Sons of the American Revolution. The funds raised will be allocated to historical and educational programs that focus on the founding principles of the American Republic and the Constitution.

Symbols of America, a new book that will be valued as a learning resource. It is a reinforcement for learning about the many cultural Symbols of America. For teachers or organizations, the book would be a nice complement to learning programs, or perhaps a presentation piece to schools or libraries which you visit. All the things every American should know about Symbols of America, compiled into a single resource. All proceeds from the sale of the

"Symbols of America" support the Tennessee Society, Sons of the American Revolution. The funds will be allocated to historical and educational programs dedicated to the founding principles of the republic and the Constitution of the United States.

For more information or to schedule an interview with the author, please contact: Rick Laws, MS, DML, Lawstn@gmail.com, (931)787-1240 Symbols of America is now available for purchase:

Symbols of America - An American Creation, by Rick Laws, MS, DML

ISBN 978-1-304-15477-4 (soft cover) https://www.lulu.com/shop/rick-laws/symbols-of-america/paperback/product-yvnkmy6.html

ISBN 978-1-304-09216-8 (hard cover) https://www.lulu.com/shop/ricky-laws/symbols-of-america/hardcover/product-2m5krjn.html

Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) - 2024914751 https://lccn.loc.gov/2024914751

America Creates BLOG - https://americacreateseries.blogspot.com/p/symbols-of-america.html

Book, 183 Pages, US Letter (8.5 x 11 in / 216 x 279 mm), Standard Color, 60# White — Uncoated, Glossy Cover

Symbols of America

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Library of Congress