Join or Die: A Look at the Iconic Snake Symbol

The iconic snake symbol, with the phrase "Join, or Die," is an enduring symbol with a long and complicated history. Today, the phrase is associated with the United States of America, appearing on the "Great Seal" of the United States, but interestingly enough, its origins are much earlier, in the 18th century. Let's take a look at the history and the meaning of this iconic symbol.

The Symbol's Origins

The snake symbol was first used in 1754 by Benjamin Franklin, in an editorial for the Pennsylvania Gazette. In the piece, Franklin used the phrase "Join, or Die" to encourage the American colonies to join together in the fight against the French and Indians. Franklin's piece featured a woodcut of a snake cut into pieces, with each piece representing a different colony. The idea was to illustrate that if the colonies did not join together, they would be easily defeated. The phrase and the image quickly caught on, and it became an enduring symbol of the colonies' unity.

The Symbol's Meaning

Today, the phrase "Join, or Die" has become a powerful symbol of unity in the United States. It is seen as a call to action, urging people to come together, work together, and move together in order to make progress and achieve success. It is a reminder that while individuals may have their own interests, they must also consider the interests of their community and work together for the greater good.

The Symbol Today

Today, the iconic snake symbol can be found in many places, from flags to monuments to t-shirts. It is a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of coming together to make progress. It is also a reminder that the history of the United States is rooted in the struggle for freedom and justice.

The Symbol's Legacy

The legacy of the snake symbol is complex and powerful. From the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement, the phrase "Join, or Die" has been used to inspire and motivate people to come together to fight for their rights and freedoms. The symbol is a reminder of the importance of unity, and it is a powerful reminder of the power of collective action to make real and lasting change.

Conclusion

The iconic snake symbol is an enduring symbol with a long and complicated history. It is a reminder of the importance of unity and the power of collective action to make real and lasting change. From the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement, the phrase "Join, or Die" has been used to inspire and motivate people to come together to fight for their rights and freedoms. The symbol is a reminder that we must work together to make progress and achieve success.