What is the Pledge of Allegiance in the U.S.? Know Its Purpose!

Have you ever heard the Pledge of Allegiance in the U.S.? It is most commonly recited in schools, government meetings, and public ceremonies. The reason behind it is that it is widely recognised as a symbol of American civic identity.

The current pledge of allegiance text reads:
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

The text above is a short patriotic promise spoken to show loyalty to the flag of the United States of America and the democratic republic it represents. We will discover its history, significance, and purpose in detail in this article. 

Who Wrote the Pledge of Allegiance?

The original pledge of allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy. He was a Baptist minister and social reformer. It was first published in a popular children’s magazine, The Youth’s Companion, as part of a national school celebration. 

Bellamy intended the pledge to be short, unifying, and suitable for children.

The earliest version was simpler and did not mention the United States by name. Over time, the wording was adjusted to make the meaning clearer, especially as immigration increased.

Source: Smithsonian National Museum of American History

What was the Timeline of the Pledge of Allegiance?

In 1923–1924, the phrase “the Flag of the United States of America” was added so new Americans would know exactly which flag was being referenced.

In 1954, during the Cold War, Congress added the words “under God” to distinguish the U.S. from communist states that promoted atheism. This change created the 31-word pledge used today and is written into federal law (4 U.S.C. §4).

Source: Library of Congress – Pledge of Allegiance history

Is saying the Pledge required in schools?

This is a common question linked to “when did they stop the pledge of allegiance in schools?” The short answer is: they did not stop it, but students cannot be forced to say it.

In West Virginia v. Barnette (1943), the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that students have a constitutional right not to recite the pledge or even stand for it. This protects freedom of speech and belief.

What about the Texas Pledge?

Some states, including Texas, also recite a state pledge after the national one. The Texas Pledge of Allegiance honours the Texas flag and is separate from the Pledge of Allegiance in the USA. Students may opt out of either.

Check Out: Who Wrote the Constitution of the U.S.?

Why is the Pledge so Significant?

The pledge remains a way to teach civic values, such as unity, freedom, and justice. Whether spoken daily or occasionally, it reflects how Americans understand their shared national ideals.