Images and symbols can tell stories. That's why people use symbols instead of words sometimes. It's easier to communicate using a symbol instead of many words. Think of a traffic light. Each color is a symbol to do something: stop, get ready to stop, go. The symbols on the canteen are the same. They tell us what the canteen means and why it is important.

In 2004, the oak tree was named the national tree of the United States. 

Laurel leaves and branches are a symbol that means victory, a win. 

This symbol is very old. It comes from Ancient Rome when winners in wars or battles would be given a crown of laurel leaves. 

It is still a symbol we use today in the United States. 

The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States.

It was chosen by our Founding Fathers in 1782. 

The bald eagle is a symbol for strength, courage, and freedom.

Today, the United States uses the image of a bald eagle on coins, buildings, flags, and even on the official seal of the United States. 

 Benjamin Franklin did not agree that the bald eagle made the best symbol for our country. He thought a turkey would be a better symbol. 

Before the Statue of Liberty, there was another symbol of a woman. Her name was Columbia. 

Columbia was a symbol for the the United States to do the right thing and of the nation's independence. 

She typically was shown wearing a type of dress called a 

. Togas were worn by people in Ancient Rome. 

On the image in the canteen, she is pinning a medal on Thomas Nast's chest. She is proud that he did the right thing supporting the soldiers during the Civil War. 

: The United States capital, Washington D.C (or District of Columbia), is named after Columbia. 

Standards for A Closer Look: American Symbols