United Symbolism of America
Did you know that the 13 stars and stripes are not simply to honor the 13 colonies?
Or why the six-pointed stars on the original American flag were changed to five-pointed stars?
Did you know the CBS eye logo is considered by many to be the eye of the devil watching over us?
Were you aware that the Washington Monument resembles an Egyptian obelisk channeling energy?
America is young, but its symbols are old. Of the symbols and myths we chose since European colonization, the ones that have become American icons are those representing hope, positive growth, and opportunity. Many of the symbols included in The United Symbolism of America have become so familiar that most of us don't give them a second glance, let alone a second thought.
Unfortunately, our patriotic symbols today have become so commonplace that, at best, we associate them with politicians we support. At worst, some believe that all American symbols are evil and Satanic. Hundreds of corporate logos are supposedly linked to this evil conspiracy and proof of its existence. Author Robert R. Hieronimus will help you see the symbolic messages encoded for us by our Founding Fathers in the symbols they chose. Unlike other writers on this topic, Hieronimus includes the historical background and the artistic influences behind the official design of each of these landmarks. In addition, he gives an archetypal interpretation based on the numbers, colors, patterns, and themes, and their usage in societies around the world.
About the Author
Robert Hieronimus, Ph.D., is a historian, visual artist, and radio host. His research has been used by the White House, State Department, published in the Congressional Record, and shared with the late Egyptian President Anwar El-Sadat. He has made a lifetime study of the symbols of secret societies and other American legends, and his 2006 book, Founding Fathers, Secret Societies, was featured repeatedly on the History and National Geographic Channels and on TV shows in Germany and South Africa. His weekly program, 21st Century Radio with Dr. Bob Hieronimus, broadcasts New Paradigm topics across the United States.
Praise for the Book
"Edward Gibbon, author of The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, once wrote that 'History is, indeed, little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.' We're sure that you'll agree that history is certainly more than just names, facts, and dates after you've read this book!"
More Than Just Names and Dates: History Books That Entertain
“I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Hieronimus, and found him to be a well-informed individual. His book, United Symbolism of America, reflects his persistence and knowledge. I’m glad that we still have people who take the time to present material that require some deep study and concern.”
—Willie Nelson, singer, songwriter, and American icon
“United Symbolism of America provides some of the best research ever compiled on the ancient symbols used in our landmarks, logos and emblems. It is a comprehensive review of their original intent and how many view them today.”
—Shirley MacLaine, Academy-award winning actress and best-selling author
“Meticulously researched and carefully presented, The United Symbolism of America is the latest example of what readers have come to expect from Bob's work: well-balanced and thought-provoking. In a word, brilliant.”
—Graham Hancock, best-selling author of Fingerprints of the Gods
“My good friend and fellow radio host Dr. Bob Hieronimus has written a wonderful book about the symbolism of the United States of America. As he did in his cult classic study on the Yellow Submarine, Dr. Bob has traced the symbols of America that most of us take for granted back to their original sources. In this epic book, which is as much about the nature of symbolism itself as it is about America's symbols, Dr. Bob has debunked the conspiratorial anarchists who see Satanism lurking in every corner. Instead, Dr. Bob has found that America's symbols unite us as a people. In so doing, he has written a fascinating book not only about symbols and symbolism, but about America herself.
—George Noory, host of Coast to Coast AM
"...[A] book which every American should read. It is a delight to see.... some of the symbols, which enrich the life of America, stripped of all their cloying invention. It is a further delight to find the impoverished roots of a burgeoning modern anti-American mythology being examined in such a simple and informed way.... When one lies about the archetypes, or undermines their worth - through malevolence or though lack of knowledge - one ensures that they are irrevocably weakened... It really is time for good-thinking Americans to wake up to the threat from within. The threat does not reside in dreamed-up Conspiracies, but in a serious lack of education in moral virtues and in probity. This seems to be one of the underlying themes of Dr. Hieronimus' remarkable and much-needed book."
—David Ovason, author of The Secret Symbols of the Dollar Bill and Secret Architecture of Our Nation's Capital
"What a book! I was enthralled by this totally unique journey through the symbols that conceal the hidden truths that our country is founded on. And the thoughtful exploration of the misuse of some of our venerable symbols in modern times is sobering and eye-opening. This is an absolute original, the kind of book that everybody needs to read to truly understand who we are and why the principles on which our country is founded continue to be so vitally important to the future of the human species."
—Whitley Strieber, best-selling author and host of "Dreamland"
"I am a devoted follower of Dr. Bob Hieronimus. His book, The United Symbolism of America, is a "must-read"! I have seen these diversified symbols all of my life, and wondered about their meaning, but never took the time to study their background. Reflecting an enormous dedication to the "cause," this is a valuable, informative book with touches of humor. It grabs your attention and holds it through to the final page!"
—Bill Mack, "The Satellite Cowboy" on XM Radio and Grammy award-winning songwriter
"United Symbolism of America could not be more timely. It dispels several bizarre conspiracy theories regarding the symbolism reflected in the Great Seal, the Liberty Bell, the Statue of Liberty, and other American icons, revealing the profound wisdom involved in their creation. This book transcends party politics and religious sects; it contains a patriotic message for all people who would defend liberty and uphold freedom."
—Stanley Krippner, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology Saybrook Graduate School and Research Center, co-author, Haunted by Combat: Understanding PTSD in War Veterans
"Is our Statue of Liberty actually a monument to the Egyptian goddess, Isis? Does the arcane symbolism of our dollar bill hide a satanic conspiracy or archetypes for freedom? Is our Constitution really indebted to the Iroquois Indians for its existence? I found Dr. Hieronimus' answers to these and many other, provocative questions as shocking as they are insightful and uplifting."
—Frank Joseph, editor of Ancient American
"This book is a must read for all those that seek to critically understand the varied and informed meanings of traditional American symbols."
—Donald A. Grinde, Jr., Ph.D., chair and Professor of American Studies, SUNY, Buffalo
"Out of many symbols Dr. Hieronimus has found one noble Truth: America was created to enlighten the world. Here is her treasury of lost wisdom."
—William Henry, author of "A Nation Under God"
What You Can Do - Make a Difference - Be Prepared
You will notice a number of references in United Symbolism of America to coming weather changes and our aggravation with the current administration for not doing enough to forestall them. Some readers might interpret this as doom and gloom and retain only the negative reaction to this situation. But no, there are plenty of things we can all do to better prepare ourselves (and our planet) for the upcoming shifts, and the more of them you do, the more empowered you will be. The more empowered you are, the less in fear you will live.
We at Hieronimus & Co. have been advising our listeners for over 20 years to store food and water, and to pre-plan an escape route for all members of your family from your home, workplace, and school. One of the great places to start for this kind of practical information is with the Red Cross.
But way beyond preparing your family and home for natural disasters, you also need to prepare yourself spiritually and emotionally. Here are some of the best lists of tips we have found that we recommend.
• Twelve "Any Time, Any Place" Survival Tips (v3.2)
By David Sunfellow. Click above for more details on Sunfellow’s practical suggestions such as: Spend time daily praying and meditating; Learn how to receive guidance from within; Strengthen our belief that spiritual forces regularly intercede in the affairs of men and women (especially in times of great need); Make as many good friends as we can; Help others. Lighten their loads and make them happy; Deal with our fears about death and dying; Remember that change, which occasionally includes pain, is what life is all about -- and relax; Study the changes that other times, places and people have passed through -- and our reactions to those changes; Keep open, inquisitive minds, stay informed and don't allow new things to send us off the deep end; Enjoy life and live each day as if it were our last; Keep our bodies strong and healthy; Be physically prepared.
• 12 Little and Big Things You Can Do
Annie Leonard has produced an excellent 20 minute animated film that appeals to all ages and cleverly explains the challenges that our consumer culture has placed on our planet. Click above for some of her suggestions for what each individual can do to shift us away from this addiction to material goods. As she says: Each of us can promote sustainability and justice at multiple levels: as an individual, as a teacher or parent, a community member, a national citizen, and as a global citizen... the good thing about such an all pervasive problem is that there are so many points of intervention. That means that there are lots and lots of places to plug in, to get involved, and to make a difference. There is no single simple thing to do, because the set of problems we’re addressing just isn’t simple. Everyone can make a difference, but the bigger your action the bigger the difference you’ll make. Here are some ideas:
Join with others! Power down. Stop junk mail. Waste less. Talk to everyone about these issues. Amplify your voice. Detox your home and detox the economy. Unplug from TV and internet and plug into your community. Park your car and walk or bike... and when necessary MARCH! Recycle your trash... and, recycle your elected officials. Buy green, buy fair, buy local, buy used, and most importantly, buy less. Flex your Citizen Muscle!
Here are some more ideas on how to fulfill and expand America's spiritual destiny, as submitted by one of our readers, Carl Landsness:
• Mission/Vision/Values for Government
If co-created by "We The People", this could inspire, unite, and empower people like never before.
• WeNeedaDream.org
Offers many ideas to unite and inspire enemies on a shared vision, a higher purpose, a new American Dream... towards Heaven on Earth.
• Nonviolent Communication
I've seen this process transmute "impossible" conflicts into win-win harmony... especially when built on spiritual practice.
• America's Higher Purpose
Few Americans are aware of the higher (and spiritual) purpose behind the founding of this nation. More info in the attached paper.
• Soul of America
A deeper perspective of who we are
• Partnership Way
Possibilities for shifting our exhausted dominator paradigm to an energized partnership paradigm
• Conscious Evolution
A higher perspective of what's happening
• Pilgrimage to America's Birthplaces
To honor, heal, and dream. Such a pilgrimage connected me with the soul of this nation like nothing before... especially meditating at dawn of July 4th on the spot MLK gave "his speech".
• Legend of the Peacemaker, Great Law of Peace and Consensus
The foundation for our U.S. Constitution... adapted from the Iroquois Nation. However, the founding fathers left out a few key elements that might merit reconsideration today.
• Synchronized Sharing of Song and Visions in all 50 State Capitals
Several such events in our magical state capital... with participants spread throughout the rotunda. We were uplifted for days.
Links to More Info
The links on this page are for researchers who contributed to The United Symbolism of America, or whose research we similarly recommend.
WASHINGTON, DC LINKS
• Chris Hardaker's research on the street plans of Washington, DC is discussed in the Washington, DC chapter. Read his paper on the "The Hexagon, the Solstice and the Kiva" and more about his Native American geometry at his website.
• Charles Westbrook's research on the street plans of Washington, DC is discussed in the Washington, DC chapter. He has a novel coming soon called The Kabalyon Key.
• Rick Campbell has an extensive website on his manuscript called "From Pentagram to Pyramids: Masonic and Kabbalistic Symbols in the Washington, D.C. Map."
• Akram Elias is a 33º Freemason who has authored numerous articles on Freemasonry and is a world speaker on the topic of “Freemasonry and the American Great Experiment.” His website describes unique visits to historic Washington, DC and explain the underlying symbolism in the architecture and design of the city.
• Tour guide and author Anthony Browder sees a great source for black pride in the Founding Fathers’ penchant for Egyptian symbolism. His website details the sites you'll see on his bus tour of the nation's capitol that evoke ancient Egypt with theIKG Cultural Resource Center.
• Benjamin Banneker Memorial Website - Where our black Founding Father is honored.
REFUTING THE ATTACKS ON FREEMASONRY LINKS
• Anti-Masonic Claims Refuted. Grand Lodge of British Columbia and Yukon Website. freemasonry.bcy.ca/anti-masonry/index.html
• The Supreme Council Ancient and Accepted Scottish Right, Southern Jurisdiction, USA http://www.srmason-sj.org
• Lists of famous Freemasons. http://www.masonicinfo.com/famous1.htm
http://www.freemasonry.bcy.ca/textfiles/famous.html
FACTS ABOUT THE AMERICAN FLAG LINKS
• USHistory.org's Betsy Ross Homepage Resources: Affidavits of her descendents and how to clip a five pointed star in one clip. www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagaffs.html / www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagstar.html
• Vexilologist Dave Martucci's terrific site on all kinds of flags. http://www.vexman.net
• The Flag House and Star Spangled Banner Museum in Baltimore http://www.flaghouse.org
• Ft. McHenry National Park and Monument to the War of 1812 and the Star Spangled Banner http://www.nps.gov/fomc
FACTS ABOUT THE GREAT SEAL LINKS
• John MacArthur's brilliant site all about the Great Seal based on the factual, documented history from the State Department publication, The Eagle and the Shield by Patterson and Dougall. http://www.GreatSeal.com
• The State Department opened a traveling exhibit about the history of America's Great Seal in honor of its 225th anniversary. They decided it was time to officially put to rest some of the conspiracy theories abounding about this powerful, positive symbol. http://diplomacy.state.gov/exhibitions/100911.htm
REAL CONSPIRACIES ARE OUT THERE LINKS
• Blanton, Thomas, Ed. “The CIA’s Family Jewels: Agency Violated Charter for 25 Years, Wiretapped Journalists and Dissidents.” Edited by Thomas Blanton. The National Security Archive, George Washington University Website.
• “Social Cohesion and the Bohemian Grove: The Power Elite at Summer Camp” by G. William Domhoff. Who Rules America Website.
• Site for journalist and conspiracy researcher Jim Marrs.
• George H.W. Bush is realigning the cherished balance of power through his abuse of the veto and the signing statement. “Presidential Signing Statements.” The American Presidency Project Website.
• “Presidential Signing Statements.” Congresspedia Website.
• “Bush on the Constitution: ‘It’s Just a Goddamned Piece of Paper’.” by Doug Thomson. Capitol Hill Blue’s The Rant Website.
PEACE IS PATRIOTIC LINKS
• Willie Nelson Peace Research Institute believes in the Promise of Peace on Earth in Our Lifetime as the Birthright of Our Global Human Family. Find out how people around the world are interpreting his freely-gifted song, "A Peaceful Solution," and spreading the standard of peace through music.
• Peace as a Patriotic Principle, very well presented by John MacArthur's GreatSeal.com website. The principal designer of the Great Seal, Charles Thomson said the olive branch symbolizes "the power of peace." Since ancient times, holding out an an olive branch has signaled peaceful intentions.
EARLY AMERICANS AND THE FIRST PEOPLES LINKS
• Ancient American Magazine: Exploring Archaeology of the Americas Before Columbus
• Exemplar of Liberty: Native America and the Evolution of Democracy by Dr. Donald Grinde and Dr. Bruce Johansen - One of the best books detailing the influence of the Native Americans on the Founding Fathers is available free online.
• Forgotten Founders: Benjamin Franklin, the Iroquois and the Rationale for the American Revolution by Dr. Bruce Johansen - another of the best books detailing the influence of the Native Americans on the Founding Fathers is available free online.
ANCIENT HISTORY RELATED TO AMERICA'S FOUNDING LINKS
• Rosemary Clark's site on Egyptian science, spirit, and magic. Ancient legends and cosmogonies equipped the living with the wisdom and skills needed to understand their environment and live in harmony with it.
• William Henry has produced numerous beautiful films, many of which are related to the secret stream of esoteric wisdom that influenced the founding of America. He invites you on a quest to reveal the lost codes and symbols that will provide keys to unlock the amazing power within you.
MORE ABOUT OUR FOUNDING FATHERS LINKS
• Thomas Jefferson's Monticello: Explore the house, gardens, and plantation of Monticello, the mountaintop home of Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence...
• The Winterthur Museum and Country Estate in Delaware is the former home of Henry Francis du Pont (1880-1969), an avid antiques collector and horticulturist. In the early 20th century, H. F. du Pont and his father, Henry Algernon du Pont, designed Winterthur in the spirit of 18th- and 19th-century European country houses. A visit to Winterthur will immerse you in another time and place. Rediscover America's heritage through its unparalleled collections of antiques and Americana.
• Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum Inc, Baltimore, Maryland where you can learn about America's African-American Founding Father. A free black man, Banneker was a self-taught genius astronomer and surveyor and was hired by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson to assist the survey and layout of the new nation's capital, the District of Columbia.
STATUE OF LIBERTY LINKS
• Official site for the national monument, Lady Liberty, or "Liberty Enlightening the World."
THE LIBERTY BELL LINKS
• Official site for the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
• Percussionist Mickey Hart, formerly of the Grateful Dead, writes about the Liberty Bell. “The Other Ones: Trip Diary, Philadelphia, PA – November 24, 2002.”
JUST BECAUSE THEY'RE COOL AND WE LIKE THEM LINKS
• The American Visionary Arts Museum in Baltimore, celebrating their current show "All Faiths Beautiful." Visionary art as defined for the purposes of the American Visionary Art Museum refers to art produced by self-taught individuals, usually without formal training, whose works arise from an innate personal vision that revels foremost in the creative act itself." In short, visionary art begins by listening to the inner voices of the soul, and often may not even be thought of as 'art' by its creator. "One of the most fantastic museums anywhere in America." -- CNN
• Bill Mack, veteran radio broadcaster, member of the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame, "The Satellite Cowboy" on XM Radio and Grammy award-winning songwriter. Bill Mack has been the friendly companion of truckers and millions of other listeners via his radio programs since 1969, broadcasting during the wee hours of the morning and keeping the world company with his music and chit-chat. He has been featured in more publications and won more awards than any other country music DJ in the world.
• Stay up to date with beloved music and entertainment icon, and social justice advocate, Willie Nelson. Tap into the Tao of Willie.
Images from the Book
Washington instructed the ten-mile federal district to be in the shape of a perfect square. The square in Freemasonry is used to remind them to keep all their activities “on the square.” Symbolically our nation’s federal district in the shape of the square could mean that the New Order of the Ages was a “square deal,” as opposed to the old order of monarchy. Drawing by Tony Browder.
The American Civil Liberties Union is one of many companies adopting the Statue of Liberty into their logo. Courtesy of the ACLU.
A single eye with a radiant light surrounding it meant "God" to the Founding Fathers. Enclosing the eye in a triangle reinforced the Trinitarian concept of the Christian religion, and is a common symbol in churches like this one in the Aachen Cathedral in Aachen, western Germany.
This engraving shows the goddess America holding the shield and surrounded by symbols and gods from the neoclassical period mixed with American symbols. The 'Genius of America' is being counseled by Minerva, Goddess of Wisdom. Behind them is an equestrian statue of George Washington. To the left is Mercury standing beside bales of goods, and gesturing toward three ships in the harbor. He is pointing out why navigation must be protected to Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, who is leaning against a beehive. John J. Barralet, America Guided by Wisdom. Philadelphia, ca. 1815. Engraving by Benjamin Tanner. Courtesy Winterthur Museum.
This transitional 'America' from 1804 shows her with ostrich plumes instead of eagle feathers, the liberty pole and cap, the shield with the American eagle, and the curious amalgamated character of the Negro-Indian boy. America, London, 1804, courtesy, Winterthur Museum.
One of many examples of Revolutionary era artwork depicting America as a goddess. This engraving entitled America Trampling on Oppression was used as the frontispiece to Samuel Cooper's History of North America published in England and America between 1789 and 1793. America is wearing Minerva's helmet plumed with ostrich feathers. In her left hand is a liberty pole and cap, her right hand points to heaven. By her right foot is a cornucopia while her left foot tramples the British lion. The symbols over her head include the caduceus, symbol of Mercury for commerce and communication. Print Collection, Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs, the New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox and Tilden Foundations.
Painting the Roses Red
In 1986 and 1987 I painted a series of watercolors called “The American Beauty,” different perspectives on American flags where the seven red stripes were composed of as many as 16 intertwined red roses. We all know that the red rose stands for love, respect and courage, and these are ideals I would like to reconnect to our flag. I chose the number 16 for the first few versions in this series as deliberately as the roses. For me, it conjures the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, who gave his life to perpetuate the American experiment. In numerology, 16 is an expression of happiness, good wishes and hopes. In the mystical I-Ching, the 16th hexagram is “enthusiasm” which assists one “to install helpers and to set armies marching.” Following numerological procedure, we add the numbers 1+6 to arrive at seven. Seven in the mystical Hebrew kabbalah is “victory.” Adding 16 roses to the American flag projects a balance of strength, courage and honor with love, beauty, perfection and achievement. This “American Beauty” presents a more complete picture of the American experience inspiring both patriotism and higher ideals. Photo by Stuart Zolotorow.
AOL Logo
Despite their seeming similarity, the AOL logo was not designed with the intention of resembling the Great Seal. The universal appeal of geometric shapes like triangles and circles, and their resemblance to the letters 'A' and 'O,' explain their popularity in corporate logos. AOL and the AOL triangle logo are registered trademarks of AOL,LLC. All Rights Reserved. © 2007 AOL LLC. Used with permission.
The ceiling of the Capitol Dome features a 4,000 square foot mural by Constantino Brumidi called "The Apotheosis of Washington," a triumph of allegorical symbolism depicting most of the major Revolutionary heroes supported by Roman and Greek gods and goddesses. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Capitol Historical Society.
Why I Paint Cars<br>I paint cars because they become moving billboards for the ageless wisdom teachings. Working in this medium, it is best to teach through symbols since most people only view the car fleetingly as it rolls by and therefore it is only their subconscious that is able to grasp the message. Symbols speak directly to our subconscious minds, and I find it the most gratifying medium for most of my artwork. This is the Biodiesel Founding Fathers Artcar completed in 2006. Photo by Stuart Zolotorow.
Designer of the Statue of Liberty, or 'Liberty Enlightening the World,' Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi (1834–1904). Photo credit National Park Service.
Andrew Ellicott and Benjamin Banneker surveying the 10-mile square boundary of the new federal district. Detail of a mural called 'Survey of the Federal Territory' painted by William A. Smith located at the Maryland House in Aberdeen. Photo by Tony Browder.
I have long been a great admirer of Benjamin Banneker and in 1976 I included a portrait of him in a mural I was commissioned to do for the City of Baltimore that included a scene of Washington crossing the Delaware. Much to the consternation of the historical sticklers who see it, however, I changed it so Washington is crossing Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and there is Benjamin Banneker riding along behind Washington in the boat. Of course, Banneker was not with Washington on this historic trip, but their paths did cross when designing the Federal City, and I took a little artistic license in order to pay homage to one of America’s forgotten founders. This mural can still be seen at Baltimore’s War Memorial Building.
William Barton's second draft for his proposal for the third committee on the Great Seal, 1782. Notice the tiny phoenix on the shield is one of numerous other symbols, not as the central image like Thomson's eagle was to become. Barton considered the phoenix to be 'emblematic of the expiring Liberty of Britain, revived by her Descendants, in America.' Illustration from Patterson and Dougall, The Eagle and the Shield.
The Better Business Bureau is one of countless organizations using the torch in their logo, demonstrating illumination through knowledge. Used with permission of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc., 4200 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203, www.us.bbb.org.
Sticker, 1990. Protesting that AIDS victims were dying because of insufficient research funding by the George H.W. Bush Administration, ACT UP New York issued a flag sticker with skulls and crossbones in place of stars. From Hinrichs and Hirasuna, used with permission.
The Capitol dome is one of the most recognizable features of Washington, DC. Symbolically, the dome is an image of the spiritual world above the city. From the beginning, it was intended to be the center from which the city was to radiate its spiritual influence. Photo credit: Architect of the Capitol.
The Milan Cathedral overlay on the map of DC as seen by Rick Campbell. Courtesy of Rick Campbell.
The eye used in a logo, like this one from CBS-TV, is often interpreted by conspiracy theorists to link the company to the 'all-seeing Illuminati'. ® and © 2007 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. Used by permission.
CBS Logo
It was commonly believed by Bartholdi's contemporaries that the face of the Statue of Liberty was modeled after his own austere and domineering mother, Charlotte. Photo credit National Park Service.
The Christmas tree crowned by a star makes a symbol comparable to the reverse of the Great Seal.
Colonial Money - Pyramid on the 50 dollar bill
Corporate U.S. Flag courtesy of Adbusters.org, who encourage you to declare your independence from corporate rule by unfurling this iconic symbol of Brand America. So much can be said with a symbol.
The Syracuse Cultural Workers have created a T-Shirt from Sophie Goldstien's "Lady Liberty" with this meaningful motto. Call 1-800-949-5139 to order their catalogue.
By stitching together $157 worth of dollar bills into this familiar shape, artist Ray Beldner made the statement in 1997 that America is built on the almighty dollar. (Illustration from Hinrichs Long May She Wave.) Used with permission.
The engraving of the die for the original obverse of the Great Seal, 1782 (note it is reversed so impressions made from it will be correct), based on Charles Thomson and William Barton's design. Compare this with Camerarius's eagle to see the likely source of inspiration. Notice also the long neck and the mistake of the tuft on the head. Illustration from Patterson and Dougall, The Eagle and the Shield.
The most likely source of inspiration for the eagle holding symbols of peace and war was Joachim Camerarius’s Emblem Book originally published in 1597. Ben Franklin owned an edition of this book and might have shared it with his friend, Charles Thomson.
Another painting of the Great Tree of Peace by John Kahoinhes Fadden. One of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) teaches Benjamin Franklin about the strength of unity while seated under the Great Tree of Peace. The eagle soars above the tree to remain vigilant and protect the peace. Courtesy of John Kahoinhes Fadden.
ERRATA: After the publication of this book, we learned from John MacArthur of GreatSeal.com that the $8 bill with the pyramid listed on page 43 is probably a mistake. Though the reproduction company from which we purchased it believed in good faith that it was an accurate reproduction of a Colonial bill, after our renewed questioning they have also concluded that this is probably a mistake. The $8 bill from 1776 is identical to this reproduction in most all other respects except the image is a harp rather than a pyramid. The pyramid image appears to have been lifted from the $50 1778 bill, and perhaps was created as part of a Milton Bradley production.
The single eye was a well established artistic convention for the Revolutionary generation seen on Colonial money like this 1778 forty-dollar bill showing the single eye with rays of light coming from it, over a circle of eight-pointed stars and an altar. Author's personal collection.
Detail of the great eagle plumage cresting the helmet of the goddess of Freedom on top of the Capitol dome. This photograph depicts a 9" authorized reproduction sculpture in the author's personal collection.
A different look at the flag. Ginny Holmes modeling a version of the flag in 1967. Painting bodies was a fad in the late 1960s and early 70s and I enjoyed this opportunity to paint on another type of moving canvas -- a startling and new way to send art and symbolic messages out into the world. With painted bodies, there are obvious distractions to the art, and thus I always painted in symbols to speak directly to the subconscious See a photo of my Biodiesel Founding Fathers Artcar for another moving canvas.
The obverse of the Great Seal of the United States designed mostly by Charles Thomson. The shield symbolizing Congress was supported solely by the eagle because "the United States of America ought to rely on their own virtue.� Department of State pamphlet 8868, July 1976.
The pyramid and the eye in the Mall as seen by Chris Hardaker. Thirteen blocks long with an Eye of God associated with the Capitol Rotunda. On the modern map, the 'Eye' is located at the Western Terrace, the present site of the Presidential Inauguration. Courtesy of Chris Hardaker, EarthMeasure.com.
Chris Hardaker's speculations on the star-form of the White House. Is the infamous pentagram over the White House actually the center of a larger upright star connected to the Capitol as a protection device? Courtesy of Chris Hardaker, EarthMeasure.com.
This 1804 engraving from Boston shows Columbia wearing a tiara, holding a laurel branch and the American flag, and supporting a shield emblazoned with the American eagle. The border consists of the popular motif of the linked chain of the American states, here numbering fifteen. Samuel Harris, “Emblem of the United States of America,” courtesy, Winterthur Museum.
hendrix flag
Artist Francis Hopkinson designed our first Stars and Stripes flag, several pieces of currency and official seals, and contributed to the U.S. Great Seal. He was also a signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. But he was most popular among his contemporaries for penning stinging satires and popular songs that helped sway the populace towards independence. From a 1785 portrait in Patterson and Dougall, The Eagle and the Shield.
The Egyptian Udjat, the right eye of Ra, also identified with Horus. Egypt is just one of many cultures that depicted their idea of God as a single eye. Illustration from Petrie, Amulets.
The immediate reaction of many when they saw this logo designed for the Big Brother sounding Defense Department organization called the Total Information Awareness Program, was, 'Are they joking?' The logo was discontinued soon after its unveiling in 2003.
Indian Power, serigraph on paper, 1975. Boldly illustrates the diminishing power of the American Indian over the centuries in this limited edition print. By designer and Graphis magazine publisher B. Martin Pedersen. From Long May She Wave by Hinrichs and Hirasuna, used by permission.
From the earliest days of discovery of the new world, America was depicted in the female form. This savage Indian Queen first evolved into a paler Indian Princess before donning a toga. Cartouche from Sheet 17 of Henry Popple's 1733 'Map of the British Empire in America with the French and Spanish Settlements adjacent thereto' (London, 1733). Library of Congress, Geography and Map Division.
The Great Tree of Peace. In this painting, one of the Haudenosaunee (what the League of the Iroquois called themselves) meets with Benjamin Franklin underneath the Iroquois Great Tree of Peace. Notice the war club and hatchet buried under the tree, and the bundle of five arrows symbolizing unity. The eagle soars above the tree to remain vigilant and protect the peace. Courtesy of John Kahoinhes Fadden.
The Jefferson Memorial was completed in 1943 and is modeled after the Roman Pantheon, Jefferson's own architectural inspiration for his University of Virginia and Monticello. Photo credit: Jennifer C. Cortner.
Jefferson Memorial at cherry blossom time. Notice the similarity to the Roman Pantheon in the neoclassical style to represent the new republic.
Humanistic psychologists agree that without meaningful symbols, a society will be unstable and anxious, as symbols supply both the psychological and organizational foundations of social life. Our Founding Fathers intuitively knew this and adopted images from classical mythology to illustrate their cause. This is the reverse of the Libertas Americana medal designed and ordered by Benjamin Franklin to commemorate the successful conclusion of the war and sent to many leaders in Europe. Executed by the great French medalist Augustin Dupré in 1782, it shows the infant Hercules strangling two serpents representing the British armies at Saratoga and Yorktown. To the left is Minerva, whose shield is decorated with the lilies of France, ready to strike the British lion to protect the young America. Courtesy of the American Numismatic Society.
The front side of the Libertas Americana medal designed and ordered by Benjamin Franklin to commemorate the successful conclusion of the war and sent to many leaders in Europe. Executed by the great French medalist Agustin Dupré in 1782, the obverse shows the goddess Liberty with free flowing hair, wild and free, like America. Behind her is the liberty pole and cap.
The Liberty Bell with Independence Hall in the background at dusk. Notice the inscription includes the names of the Americans who recast the bell the second and third time, "Pass and Stow." ©iStockphoto.com/drbueller
Photograph taken during a trip of the Liberty Bell from Philadelphia to Charleston, South Carolina in January, 1902 to be exhibited at Interstate and West Indian Exposition. All three gentlemen in the photograph are wearing Liberty Bell badges. Courtesy of Independence National Historical Park.
The Lincoln Memorial was completed in 1922 and is modeled after Greek Doric temple designs like the Parthenon of Athens. Photo credit: Terry J. Adams, National Park Service.
Advertising messages on the flag was common in the mid-nineteenth century like in this handbill, until citizen groups lobbied for a code of flag etiquette. (Illustration from Hinrichs Long May She Wave.) Used with permission.
The radiant eye over the pyramid is a symbol of positive power and growth that can be seen in many examples in Christian iconography, like this image of the Star of Bethlehem over the Holy Manger.
Nicholas Mann uses the Golden Section to draw three circles and pentagrams together in symbolically relating the Legislature to the People as they are related to the Executive. Reproduced with permission from the Sacred Geometry of Washington, D.C. by Nicholas Mann.
The “Eastern Star” based on the vesica geometry and the Golden Ratio as seen by Nicholas Mann. Reproduced with permission from the Sacred Geometry of Washington, D.C. by Nicholas Mann.
Map of Washington, DC attributed to Andrew Ellicott. Compare to the original map designed by Peter Charle L'Enfant to see the subtle changes made by Ellicott.
Peter Charles L'Enfant's 1791 "Plan of the city intended for the permanent seat of the government of the United States." Library of Congress.
The double-headed eagle is often used to depict an organization formed by the joining together of two jurisdictions. It is also the most widely used emblem of the Scottish Rite Freemasons. Deus meumque jus translates to 'God and my right.' Photo credit: Supreme Council, 33º, S.J., U.S.A.
The McMillan Plan for the National Mall in 1901 shows how the placement of the five main monuments creates the shape of a cross. Photo courtesy of the National Capital Planning Commission.
The Moon and Stars Logo used by Procter & Gamble from 1930-1991. A much publicized letter-writing campaign by fundamentalist-conspiratorialists speciously claimed this logo to be Satanic. Used by permission.
This illustration shows the lunar alignment pattern seen by Charles Westbrook and measured from the center of the Earth. Permission granted, copyright 1990, Charles Westbrook, from Talisman of the United States.
A Liberty Bell logo for the National Association for Radio Talk Show Hosts (NARTSH) designed by Bob Hieronimus.
The American eagle has even landed on the moon with Apollo 11.
Nova Constellation Coin
Nova Constellation Coin
Nova Constellatio Copper 1785 from the author's personal collection. One example of the many uses of the single eye as a motif in early American art.
An early use of the Liberty Bell as a symbolic device. From R.A. Smith's Philadelphia As It Is In 1852 (Philadelphia: Lindsay and Blakeston, 1852). Courtesy of Independence National Historical Park.
David Ovason says that L’Enfant placed on his earliest map of the city a right-angled triangle with the 90-degree angle on the Washington Monument, and the hypotenuse running down Pennsylvania Avenue, joining the White House with the Capitol. Reproduced with permission from The Secret Architecture of Our Nation's Capital, by David Ovason.
Ovason’s theory extends L’Enfant’s triangle to the skies, seeing almost the same right-angled triangle traced around the constellation Virgo. The stars of the Virgoan Triangle correspond with the L’Enfant triad as follows: Arcturus falls on the White House, Regulus on the Capitol, and Spica on the Washington Monument. Reproduced with permission from The Secret Architecture of Our Nation's Capital, by David Ovason.
Conspiracy theorists have found what they believe to be an owl in the filigree background design of the one dollar bill. Some interpret this as 'proof' that this country is controlled by the secret society known as the Bohemian Grove who also use the owl symbol.
An example of the Liberty Bell appearing in a corporate logo as a symbol of trust. The Pennzoil logo is a registered trademark of Pennzoil-Quaker State Company, Houston, TX, 2008. Used with permission.
Mendeleyev’s Periodic Table can also be compared to the eye in the triangle over the pyramid and is just one of hundreds of examples of how this American symbol is reflected in positive ways throughout culture.
One of the only known portraits of Peter (Pierre) Charles L'Enfant, the flamboyant original designer of Washington, D.C.
The phoenix or firebird is a legendary creature known to several cultures around the world. At the end of its long life it was said to regenerate itself in a burst of flames. Though conspiracy theorists are incorrect to say the eagle on the Great Seal was originally intended to be a phoenix, the phoenix was included in one of the preliminary designs for the seals. The phoenix symbolized renewal to the founders and was also seen on early colonial money. Courtesy of Toni L. Taylor, Artist.
The Pinkerton Detective Agency has used the single eye in their logo since its founding in the 1880s. This is their updated logo today.
The United States Postal Service logo is one of the most familiar uses of the eagle that we see in our daily lives today. The eagle side of the Great Seal has been adopted with slight differences by dozens of government institutions. Used with permission of the USPS.
The Great Pyramid overlay on the map of DC as seen by Rick Campbell. The peak of the relieving stones is matched with Scott Circle north of the White House, while the junction of the ascending passage and the descending passages is matched with the junction of Pennsylvania and Potomac Avenues. Courtesy of Rick Campbell.
This fifty dollar bill from 1778 designed by Francis Hopkinson is believed to have inspired the use of the pyramid on the Great Seal. Author's personal collection.
The reverse of the Great Seal of the United States is a noble symbol worthy of our reverence and respect. The eye shows the favor of Providence (God) and the pyramid shows the strength and duration of America. Department of State pamphlet 8868, July 1976.
Charles Westbrook believes the city map is a “type of planisphere,” allowing for solar and moon alignments of streets. This illustration shows the solar alignment pattern in the streets of Washington as measured from the center of the Earth. Permission granted, copyright 1990, Charles Westbrook, from Talisman of the United States.
The Statue of Freedom by Thomas Crawford is located atop the dome of the United States Capitol. Just like in the Iroquois Great Tree of Peace, Freedom is crowned by the eagle. The eagle is standing vigilant at the very summit of Congress, ever watchful and far-seeing for threats to our liberty. Photo credit: Architect of the Capitol.
'Liberty Enlightening the World.' Photo credit National Park Service.
The Statue of Liberty has appeared on license plates in both New York and New Jersey.
Bartholdi's surviving clay maquettes of the proposed Suez Canal lighthouse, Egypt Carrying the Light of Progress to Asia. Despite its similarity to the Statue of Liberty, Bartholdi denied this never-completed statue was related in any conscious way. On display at the Statue of Liberty Exhibit on Liberty Island in New York. Photo courtesy of Barry Moreno.
The Tsar Kolokol Bell in Moscow's Red Square is thought to be the largest bell in existence. A hundred and fifty times bigger than the Liberty Bell, and with a huge chunk missing rather than a thin crack, it is hardly “identical” to the Liberty Bell as conspiracy advocates have claimed.
The Washington Monument was completed in 1884. Unlike an Egyptian obelisk which is fashioned out of one single stone, this is a truly 'American' obelisk, fashioned out of many stones: 'out of many, one.' Photo credit: Jennifer C. Cortner.
The south portico of the White House was created in 1829 fashioned after designs by Benjamin Henry Latrobe. “©iStockphoto.com/ mrbfaust.
Conspiracy theorists have misconstrued that our Founding Fathers intended the pyramid symbol to illustrate the power structure of our invisible world government. This fallacy completely disregards the influence of the neoclassical movement and the Enlightenment on America's founders who chose the pyramid for our Great Seal as a symbol of strength and duration. (Illustration from Grem, Karl Marx Capitalist.)