Which Country Says In God We Trust: A Deep Dive into the United States’ National Motto

Which Country Says In God We Trust: A Deep Dive into the United States’ National Motto

The phrase “In God We Trust” is more than just a catchy slogan; it’s a deeply ingrained part of the American identity, a motto that resonates across the nation’s currency, official buildings, and even in the oaths of public officials. But to answer the question directly: The United States of America is the country that prominently features and officially uses “In God We Trust” as its national motto. While other nations might invoke divine providence in their founding documents or national anthems, the singular, widespread adoption and public presence of “In God We Trust” are uniquely American. For many Americans, myself included, seeing these words on a dollar bill or etched above the entrance to a courthouse feels as natural as the stars and stripes themselves. It’s a sentiment that’s been passed down through generations, sparking contemplation about faith, national identity, and the role of religion in public life.

This pervasive presence wasn’t always the case, and its journey to becoming the official motto is a fascinating tale woven through American history, marked by religious revivalism, political debate, and evolving interpretations of the separation of church and state. Understanding *which country says In God We Trust* involves delving into the specific historical context and legislative actions that cemented this phrase into the fabric of American life. It’s a story that continues to be debated and re-examined, reflecting the diverse beliefs and values of the American people. From its origins as a grassroots sentiment to its formal adoption, the motto’s evolution offers a unique window into the American psyche and its relationship with faith.

The Genesis of “In God We Trust”: A Response to Crisis

The origins of “In God We Trust” as a national sentiment can be traced back to a period of profound national crisis: the American Civil War. The mid-19th century was a time of immense upheaval, division, and bloodshed. As the nation grappled with its own identity and the brutal realities of war, many Americans turned to their faith for solace and a sense of divine guidance. It was during this turbulent era that calls for a more explicit recognition of God in national affairs began to gain traction.

One of the most significant figures in this movement was Reverend M. R. Watkinson, a minister from Ridleyville, Pennsylvania. In 1861, he penned a letter to Salmon P. Chase, the Secretary of the Treasury under President Abraham Lincoln. Watkinson urged Chase to include a recognition of the “Almighty God in some prominent manner” on the nation’s coins. His plea was born out of a deep-seated desire to see the nation acknowledge its reliance on a higher power during what felt like an existential struggle. Watkinson’s letter articulated a sentiment shared by many who felt that the ongoing conflict was a divine judgment and that the nation needed to demonstrate its repentance and faith.

Secretary Chase, a devout man himself, was receptive to the idea. He recognized the emotional resonance of Watkinson’s suggestion and understood its potential to unify a fractured nation under a common spiritual banner. Chase subsequently instructed James Pollock, the Director of the U.S. Mint, to consider incorporating a suitable motto onto the coinage. This directive marked a pivotal moment, transforming a heartfelt plea into a tangible governmental consideration. Pollock, in turn, tasked the engraver of the Philadelphia Mint with developing designs that could accommodate such a phrase.

Initially, there were various proposals considered. One early suggestion was “Our Trust Is In God,” and another was “God and Our Country.” However, the phrase that ultimately gained favor was “In God We Trust.” This wording, perhaps due to its directness and the implied active reliance, seemed to resonate most strongly. The adoption of this motto on currency was not an immediate, single event. It was a process that involved several legislative steps and continued endorsements.

The first time “In God We Trust” appeared on U.S. coins was in 1864, on the two-cent piece. This was a significant milestone, making the phrase a visible, tangible symbol of national faith for the first time. The Act of Congress of March 3, 1865, further solidified this sentiment by authorizing the inscription of “In God We Trust” on all U.S. coins. This legislation wasn’t a fleeting endorsement; it was a deliberate decision by the legislative branch to imbue the nation’s currency with a spiritual message. The idea was that as people handled their money, they would be reminded of their nation’s faith, potentially fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

It’s crucial to understand the historical context here. In the mid-19th century, the lines between religious expression and public life were generally more blurred than they are today. Many believed that a public acknowledgment of God was not only appropriate but necessary for the nation’s moral and spiritual well-being. The Civil War amplified this sentiment, as people sought divine intervention and a reaffirmation of their values amidst the carnage. The motto, therefore, emerged as a reflection of prevailing societal attitudes and a response to a profound national crisis, aiming to rally the populace around a shared belief in a higher power.

From Coinage to National Motto: The Legislative Journey

While “In God We Trust” made its debut on coins in the mid-19th century, its journey to becoming the official national motto was a more protracted affair, involving further legislative action and public sentiment over many decades. The initial authorization in 1865 primarily applied to U.S. coinage. For years, the phrase remained a common feature on coins, but it wasn’t universally applied to all forms of currency, nor was it formally declared the national motto of the United States.

The turn of the 20th century and the mid-20th century brought renewed attention to the phrase. During periods of international tension, particularly during World War I and World War II, there was a heightened sense of national identity and a desire to articulate what the United States stood for. In this climate, the idea of more formally recognizing “In God We Trust” began to resurface.

A significant legislative push occurred in the 1950s. The Cold War era was characterized by an ideological struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, a state that officially espoused atheism. Many Americans felt that it was crucial to distinguish the U.S. from the Soviet Union by emphasizing the nation’s religious foundations. This was seen as a way to highlight the perceived moral superiority of the American system and to rally support for the American cause on a global scale.

In 1956, Congress passed Public Law 84-140, officially designating “In God We Trust” as the national motto of the United States. This act was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on July 30, 1956. This legislation was not a casual amendment; it was a deliberate declaration by the legislative and executive branches to elevate the phrase from its status as a recurring inscription on currency to the official identifier of the nation’s core beliefs. The law explicitly stated that “the national motto of the United States shall be ‘In God We Trust’.”

The inclusion of the motto on all U.S. paper currency followed. Prior to 1957, paper money did not bear the inscription. However, in response to the 1956 law, the Treasury Department began issuing bills with “In God We Trust” printed on them. The first bills to feature the motto were the one-dollar silver certificates issued in 1957. This move ensured that the motto would be in the hands of virtually every American, constantly reinforcing its presence in daily life.

This legislative journey underscores a key point: the designation of “In God We Trust” as the national motto was a conscious, deliberative act by the U.S. government. It wasn’t an accidental accretion of tradition. It was a policy decision made during a specific historical period, driven by a confluence of religious sentiment, national crisis, and geopolitical considerations. The process involved multiple steps, from initial proposals and congressional authorizations for coinage to the final, definitive act of Congress in 1956 that established it as the official national motto.

“In God We Trust” in Public Life: Beyond the Motto

The influence of “In God We Trust” extends far beyond its official designation as the national motto. This phrase has become deeply embedded in various aspects of American public life, appearing in contexts that range from governmental buildings to the oaths of office. Its presence is a constant, visible reminder of a foundational aspect of American identity, as perceived by many.

On U.S. Currency: This is arguably the most visible manifestation of the motto. As mentioned, “In God We Trust” is printed on all paper money and is also featured on most U.S. coins. This ubiquitous presence ensures that the motto is encountered by virtually every American on a daily basis, serving as a constant, tangible affirmation of the nation’s stated reliance on a higher power. For many, handling money becomes an everyday encounter with this national sentiment.

On Government Buildings: You will find “In God We Trust” inscribed on the walls or facades of numerous government buildings across the United States. This includes courthouses, post offices, and other federal and state structures. For instance, the motto is prominently displayed in the House of Representatives and the Senate chambers. Its placement in these halls of power signifies, for proponents, that the lawmakers themselves are operating under divine guidance or acknowledging a higher moral authority in their deliberations and decisions. It’s a symbol that aims to imbue the very structures of government with a sense of purpose and accountability beyond the temporal.

In Oaths of Office: When individuals take on public office, from the President of the United States to local officials, they often swear an oath that concludes with the phrase “so help me God.” While not explicitly stating “In God We Trust,” this invocation acknowledges a divine presence and assistance in the fulfillment of their duties. This is a tradition deeply rooted in American civic ritual, reinforcing the idea that public service is a solemn responsibility undertaken with a spiritual dimension.

In Public Schools: The display of “In God We Trust” in public schools has been a recurring point of discussion and legal challenge. In 2002, Congress passed a law permitting, but not requiring, the display of the motto in public schools and other government buildings, provided the displays are donated and funded by private contributions. This law aims to balance the desire to acknowledge the motto with constitutional concerns about religious establishment. The presence of the motto in educational settings, even when voluntarily donated, often sparks debate about its appropriateness in a secular public school environment.

As a Response to National Events: The motto is frequently invoked by politicians and public figures during times of national crisis, tragedy, or celebration. Following events like natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or significant national anniversaries, references to “In God We Trust” often surge. This usage serves to rally the nation, offering a sense of shared comfort and collective strength derived from faith. It can be seen as a way to articulate a collective aspiration for resilience and a belief in a benevolent providence guiding the nation through difficult times.

The pervasive presence of “In God We Trust” in these varied public spheres reflects its deep entrenchment in the American cultural and political landscape. It is a phrase that is constantly encountered, discussed, and debated, symbolizing for many the enduring faith that underpins the nation, while for others, it raises complex questions about religious freedom and the role of government.

Debates and Legal Challenges: The Separation of Church and State

The prominent display and official adoption of “In God We Trust” have not been without controversy. The phrase, and its presence in public life, has been the subject of numerous debates and legal challenges, primarily centering on the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This clause states that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.”

The Establishment Clause Argument: Critics argue that by officially endorsing “In God We Trust” as the national motto and requiring its inscription on currency and public buildings, the government is, in effect, establishing a religion. They contend that this violates the principle of separation of church and state, which aims to prevent the government from favoring one religion over others or favoring religion over non-religion. From this perspective, the motto sends a message that the government supports theistic beliefs, potentially alienating or marginalizing citizens who do not believe in God or adhere to different religious traditions.

Court Rulings: The courts have largely upheld the constitutionality of “In God We Trust.” A key case that addressed the motto on currency was Aronow v. United States (1970). In this case, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the inscription of “In God We Trust” on U.S. coins was a patriotic or ceremonial reference to God rather than an unconstitutional establishment of religion. The court stated that the motto served a similar purpose to the phrase “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance, which has also been subject to legal scrutiny.

Another significant ruling came in 2014 when the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, in *Gaylor v. Mnuchin*, upheld the motto’s constitutionality on currency. The court reasoned that the motto was not an endorsement of religion by the government, but rather an acknowledgment of the religious beliefs of the vast majority of Americans. The court distinguished between a governmental endorsement of religion and a governmental acknowledgment of religious sentiment that is prevalent in society.

The Supreme Court has not directly ruled on the constitutionality of “In God We Trust” as the national motto. However, its past decisions regarding religious expression in the public square often emphasize that government actions must have a secular purpose and cannot endorse or promote religion. The courts have generally interpreted “In God We Trust” as fitting within this framework, viewing it as a historical and ceremonial reference rather than a theological declaration.

The “Ceremonial Deism” Argument: Supporters of the motto often employ the concept of “ceremonial deism.” This legal and philosophical argument posits that certain religious phrases or symbols, when used in patriotic or ceremonial contexts, have lost their purely religious meaning and have become integrated into the civic culture. Examples often cited include “In God We Trust,” the phrase “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance, and the presidential oath. Proponents argue that these expressions are not intended to promote a specific religious doctrine but rather to acknowledge a broad cultural heritage and a sense of national identity that includes religious sentiment.

Varying Interpretations: It’s important to recognize that interpretations of the Establishment Clause and its application to “In God We Trust” vary widely. For some, any governmental reference to God is an affront to secular governance. For others, it is a necessary acknowledgment of the nation’s historical and cultural roots. The ongoing nature of these debates reflects the dynamic tension within American society regarding the role of religion in public life.

The legal challenges, while persistent, have thus far not resulted in the removal of “In God We Trust” from currency or its designation as the national motto. The courts have consistently found that its historical context, ceremonial use, and widespread acceptance prevent it from being classified as an unconstitutional establishment of religion. Nonetheless, the debates continue to highlight fundamental questions about religious freedom, national identity, and the delicate balance between government and faith in the United States.

“In God We Trust” in Other Nations: A Comparative Perspective

While the question is specifically about *which country says In God We Trust* as its primary, widely recognized motto, it’s useful to briefly consider how other nations, or even regions within other countries, might express similar sentiments. This comparative perspective can highlight the unique nature of the American approach.

Many countries have national anthems, historical documents, or legal traditions that invoke divine providence, God, or a higher power. For instance:

• Canada: The Canadian national anthem, “O Canada,” includes the line “With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North strong and free. From far and wide, O Canada, We stand on guard for thee. God keep our land glorious and free!”
• United Kingdom: The British national anthem, “God Save the King,” is a direct plea for divine protection and blessing upon the monarch.
• Australia: The Australian national anthem, “Advance Australia Fair,” also contains references to God.
• New Zealand: The New Zealand national anthem, “God Defend New Zealand,” includes similar invocations.
• Latin America: Many countries in Latin America, with strong Catholic traditions, have historical documents or national symbols that reference God or divine intervention. For example, the national anthem of Argentina includes “OHãy the Holy Father, Hear the vows, with which we ask you to defend her.”

However, there are key distinctions:

• Official Motto vs. Anthem/Historical Document: While many nations might have God-related phrases in their national anthems or historical founding documents, “In God We Trust” is the *official national motto* of the United States. This means it’s not just a lyrical expression but a designated tagline for the nation.
• Ubiquity on Currency: The consistent and universal presence of “In God We Trust” on all U.S. currency, both coins and paper money, is a defining characteristic. While other countries might have religious symbols on their currency, the direct, explicit motto formulation is less common.
• Legislative Act: The formal legislative act in 1956 that declared “In God We Trust” as the motto sets it apart. It was a specific governmental decision to adopt this phrase as a symbol of national identity.

In some cases, specific regions or groups within countries might adopt similar mottos. For example, some Christian organizations or movements might use “In God We Trust” as their slogan. However, this is distinct from official governmental adoption at a national level.

Therefore, while the sentiment of relying on divine power is widespread globally, the specific wording “In God We Trust” and its official status as the national motto, emblazoned on currency and public spaces, is a defining characteristic of the United States. It’s this combination of explicit wording, official designation, and ubiquitous application that makes the U.S. unique in this regard.

Personal Reflections and Societal Impact

As an American, the phrase “In God We Trust” has been a constant presence throughout my life. I remember seeing it on the coins my grandparents gave me, on the classroom walls at school, and of course, on every dollar bill I’ve ever earned or spent. It’s so ingrained in the American experience that it can sometimes go unnoticed, much like the air we breathe. But when you pause to consider it, especially when asked *which country says In God We Trust*, it prompts reflection on what that really means.

For me, personally, it’s a reminder of a broader cultural narrative. It speaks to a historical tendency within the U.S. to acknowledge a higher power, a sense that the nation’s existence and well-being are not solely the product of human endeavor but are also guided by something greater. This can be a comforting thought, especially during times of uncertainty or hardship. It offers a sense of continuity with the past, connecting contemporary Americans to the foundational beliefs of their ancestors.

However, I’ve also witnessed the complexity and diversity of perspectives surrounding this motto. I’ve had conversations with friends and acquaintances who are atheists, agnostics, or adhere to faiths that don’t necessarily align with a singular concept of “God.” For them, the constant presence of “In God We Trust” can feel exclusionary, or at the very least, like a statement of belief that doesn’t represent them. This highlights the inherent tension in having a national motto that is rooted in religious language in a pluralistic society.

The societal impact of “In God We Trust” is multifaceted:

• National Unity and Identity: For many, the motto serves as a unifying symbol, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose. It taps into a collective yearning for meaning and for something larger than oneself, particularly in a nation as diverse as the United States. It can be seen as a nod to the nation’s Judeo-Christian heritage, which has been influential in shaping American culture and values.
• Religious Freedom and Pluralism: Conversely, the motto raises critical questions about religious freedom and the rights of minority faiths or non-believers. While the courts have generally found it constitutional as a ceremonial phrase, its prominent display can still be perceived as a government endorsement of religion, which runs counter to the principle of secular governance and the protection of individual conscience. This tension forces ongoing dialogue about how to accommodate diverse beliefs within a national framework.
• Political Discourse: “In God We Trust” often features in political discourse, particularly among conservative politicians who use it to signal their alignment with traditional values and their support for religious expression in public life. It can be a rallying cry, a way to connect with a base that sees faith as a cornerstone of American identity.
• Economic Symbolism: The presence of the motto on currency makes it an unavoidable aspect of economic transactions. Every time money changes hands, the motto is displayed. This can reinforce its presence in daily life and its association with the nation’s commerce and prosperity. It becomes a quiet, yet persistent, symbol of the nation’s perceived foundational principles.

My own journey of understanding has involved grappling with these different viewpoints. It’s easy to accept the status quo when it aligns with your own background and beliefs. But actively engaging with the arguments against the motto, understanding the perspectives of those who feel marginalized by it, is crucial for a complete picture. It’s a testament to the ongoing evolution of American society and its continuous effort to define what it means to be a unified nation while respecting individual liberties and diverse beliefs.

Ultimately, “In God We Trust” is more than just words on money; it’s a symbol that evokes a wide range of emotions, interpretations, and debates about the very nature of American identity, faith, and governance. It’s a phrase that, by its very existence, invites us to consider our place within a larger narrative, both national and, for many, spiritual.

Frequently Asked Questions about “In God We Trust”

Why is “In God We Trust” on U.S. Currency?

The presence of “In God We Trust” on U.S. currency is a result of a legislative process that began in the mid-19th century and culminated in its official designation as the national motto in 1956. The initial impetus came during the Civil War, a time of national crisis, when a minister, Reverend M. R. Watkinson, wrote to Secretary of the Treasury Salmon P. Chase suggesting a recognition of God on U.S. coins. Chase agreed, and the phrase first appeared on the two-cent piece in 1864. The Act of March 3, 1865, authorized its use on all U.S. coins. However, it was not until 1956 that Congress officially adopted “In God We Trust” as the national motto. This was further reinforced when the Treasury Department began issuing paper money with the motto in 1957, ensuring its widespread visibility in daily transactions. The intention behind its inclusion was, and remains for many, to acknowledge the nation’s reliance on a higher power and to serve as a patriotic and unifying symbol.

The journey to having the motto on all currency was a deliberate one. After the 1956 law, the Treasury Department, under President Eisenhower, made it a priority to engrave the motto on all denominations. This was seen as a way to distinguish the United States from the officially atheist Soviet Union during the Cold War, emphasizing American values. It became a way to express a core tenet of what many Americans believed defined their nation. Therefore, the motto is on currency not as an accident of history, but as a direct outcome of legislative decisions, cultural sentiment, and geopolitical considerations that aimed to instill a sense of national piety and identity.

When did “In God We Trust” become the national motto?

“In God We Trust” officially became the national motto of the United States on July 30, 1956. This was the date that President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed Public Law 84-140, which mandated that the phrase be the national motto. Prior to this, the phrase had appeared sporadically on U.S. coinage since the Civil War era, starting with the two-cent piece in 1864. While authorized for use on coins, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century, amidst the heightened anti-communist sentiment of the Cold War, that there was a significant push to elevate it to official motto status. This legislative act was a clear statement by the U.S. government, reflecting a broad consensus at the time that publicly acknowledging a belief in God was an integral part of American identity and values, serving as a counterpoint to the atheistic ideology of the Soviet Union.

The designation in 1956 was the culmination of decades of advocacy and evolving public opinion. It was more than just a symbolic gesture; it was a conscious effort by lawmakers to embed a religious sentiment into the core identity of the nation. This legal action provided the authority for the motto to be placed on all paper currency, which began in 1957, thus ensuring its constant presence in the daily lives of Americans. So, while its roots are older, its formal recognition as the national motto is a distinctly 20th-century development.

Has the constitutionality of “In God We Trust” been challenged?

Yes, the constitutionality of “In God We Trust” has been challenged multiple times, primarily on the grounds that it violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from establishing a religion. Critics argue that by displaying this motto on currency and public buildings, the government is effectively endorsing religion, thereby marginalizing non-believers and those of minority faiths. They contend that it promotes a theistic worldview over a secular one, which is contrary to the principles of religious neutrality that the government is expected to uphold.

However, these challenges have consistently failed in federal courts. The prevailing legal interpretation, upheld by various circuit courts and implicitly by the Supreme Court’s refusal to hear many such cases, is that the motto is not an unconstitutional establishment of religion. The courts have often reasoned that “In God We Trust” is a form of “ceremonial deism”—a patriotic or historical reference that has become part of the nation’s civic tradition rather than an endorsement of a specific religious doctrine. For example, in the case of Aronow v. United States (1970), the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals stated that the motto’s purpose was “secular, rather than religious” and that it served to “symbolize the historical traditions and the people’s beliefs.” Similarly, in Gaylor v. Mnuchin (2014), the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed that the motto on currency does not violate the Establishment Clause, viewing it as an acknowledgment of the religious sentiments of the populace rather than an endorsement by the government.

While the legal challenges have not succeeded in removing the motto, they have kept the debate alive and continue to raise important questions about the role of religion in public life in a pluralistic society. The courts have, for the most part, found a way to reconcile the motto’s existence with constitutional principles by focusing on its historical context and ceremonial nature.

Are there other countries that use “In God We Trust” as their motto?

No, “In God We Trust” is not used as an official national motto by any other country besides the United States. While many nations across the globe invoke divine providence, God, or a higher power in their national anthems, historical documents, or even specific currency designs, the explicit phrase “In God We Trust” as a formal, legislatively declared national motto is unique to the United States. This distinction is important; other countries may have religious sentiments embedded in their national identity, but the specific wording and official status of “In God We Trust” are uniquely American.

For instance, Canada’s national anthem includes “God keep our land glorious and free,” and the United Kingdom’s anthem is “God Save the King.” Many countries with strong religious traditions, particularly in Latin America or parts of Europe, might have references to God in their founding principles or legal frameworks. However, these are generally not presented as a concise, universally applied national motto in the same manner as “In God We Trust” in the U.S. The U.S. motto is also distinguished by its ubiquitous presence on all forms of currency, making it a constant, tangible reminder of the nation’s proclaimed faith, a level of integration that is less common elsewhere.

What is the historical significance of “In God We Trust”?

The historical significance of “In God We Trust” lies in its evolution from a grassroots plea during a time of national crisis to an officially sanctioned national motto. Its origins during the Civil War reflect a period when many Americans sought divine solace and justification amidst profound division and bloodshed. The call to inscribe the phrase on currency was a way to manifest this collective reliance on God and to distinguish the Union cause, in the eyes of many, as divinely sanctioned. The subsequent legislative actions, culminating in its official designation in 1956, underscore its enduring symbolic importance in the American consciousness, particularly as a counterpoint to atheistic ideologies during the Cold War.

Moreover, the phrase represents a long-standing tradition in American history of acknowledging a role for religion in public life, albeit a role that has been continuously debated and reinterpreted. It speaks to the influence of religious revivals and movements on national policy and identity. The fact that it was eventually placed on all U.S. currency cemented its place as an everyday reminder of this historical and cultural facet of the nation. Its significance, therefore, is not just in its wording, but in what it represents about American historical narratives, societal values, and the ongoing negotiation between faith and governance.

How is “In God We Trust” displayed in public spaces?

“In God We Trust” is displayed in various public spaces across the United States, often in locations associated with government and civic life. Its presence is most notably found on all U.S. currency, both coins and paper money, making it a ubiquitous sight in everyday transactions. Beyond currency, the motto is inscribed on the walls or entrances of numerous federal and state buildings, including courthouses, post offices, and legislative chambers. For example, it is prominently displayed in the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate. In public schools, while not mandatory, Congress passed a law in 2002 permitting the display of “In God We Trust” in schools and other government facilities, provided the displays are donated and funded by private contributions. This allows for the motto to be present in educational settings without direct government expenditure, navigating legal sensitivities. The phrase also appears in oaths of office, often concluded with “so help me God,” further integrating it into civic rituals and ceremonies.

The placement of the motto in these public areas is often a deliberate choice by government entities or private donors, intended to signify a connection between the nation’s governance and a belief in a higher power. Proponents view these displays as affirmations of national values and historical traditions, while critics see them as inappropriate governmental endorsements of religion. The varied contexts of its display—from the intimate act of handling money to the public setting of a courthouse—highlight its deep and multifaceted presence in American society, prompting ongoing discussions about its appropriateness and meaning in a diverse nation.