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When I was in grade school in the early 1960s, my teacher often asked the class to repeat “The American’s Creed” written in 1917 by William Tyler Page. It was written as an essay at a time when America had entered World War I and patriotism for the country was high. It was given the title of “The American’s Creed” in a resolution passed by the House of Representatives on April 3, 1918.
I truly doubt that the generations of students post my generation of baby boomers have been asked to recite or are even aware that “The American’s Creed” exists let alone what it states. As we are on the eve of what may be the most consequential election in the history of our nation, I think it is appropriate to remind your readers that we, as a nation, do have an American creed that defines what it is to be an American:
“I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed, a democracy in a republic, a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.
“I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies.”
David Basley
Ashland
