Who wanted the national bird to be a turkey? This question might seem like a quirky trivia fact, but it actually has a fascinating history behind it. The idea of making the turkey the national bird of the United States was proposed by Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers, during the early days of the nation’s formation.
Benjamin Franklin, known for his wit and wisdom, suggested the turkey as a symbol of the United States in a letter to his friend and fellow Founding Father, John Adams. Franklin believed that the turkey was a more suitable emblem for the new nation than the bald eagle, which was eventually chosen as the national bird. He argued that the turkey was more “honest and noble” and had a “more dignified” appearance.
Franklin’s reasons for advocating for the turkey were multifaceted. He admired the turkey’s intelligence and believed that it represented the American spirit of independence and ingenuity. Additionally, Franklin thought that the turkey was a more democratic choice, as it was a bird that could be found in abundance across the country, rather than the bald eagle, which was more common in certain regions.
Despite Franklin’s efforts, the turkey did not become the national bird. The bald eagle was chosen instead, primarily due to its majestic appearance and the fact that it was already featured on the Great Seal of the United States. However, Franklin’s proposal sparked a lively debate about the symbolism and identity of the new nation, and it has remained a topic of interest and debate ever since.
Today, the debate over the national bird continues to capture the imagination of many Americans. Some argue that the turkey better represents the United States’ democratic values and its diverse population, while others believe that the bald eagle’s strength and freedom are more fitting symbols of the nation’s spirit. Whether or not the turkey had become the national bird, the story of Franklin’s proposal serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of the United States.
