What bird did Ben Franklin want as the national bird? This question often piques the curiosity of many history enthusiasts and bird lovers alike. As one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Benjamin Franklin had a unique perspective on what should symbolize the nation he helped to create. His choice of bird, the turkey, was not only unexpected but also revealed much about his character and values.
Benjamin Franklin, in a letter to his daughter in 1784, expressed his preference for the turkey as the national bird. He argued that the turkey was “a much more noble bird” compared to the bald eagle, which was eventually chosen as the national emblem. Franklin believed that the bald eagle, with its “bad moral character,” was not a suitable representation for the United States. He found the bald eagle’s reputation for “boldness and want of prudence” to be unbecoming for a nation that aimed to be both wise and free.
On the other hand, Franklin saw the turkey as a bird of wisdom and courage. He described it as “a true original native of America,” which made it more appropriate for the nation’s symbol. Furthermore, Franklin believed that the turkey’s “great abilities” and “honesty” were qualities that America should aspire to embody.
Several reasons can be attributed to Franklin’s preference for the turkey. Firstly, he had a personal affection for the bird, having raised turkeys on his farm in Pennsylvania. This personal connection allowed him to appreciate the turkey’s characteristics and qualities more deeply.
Secondly, Franklin was an advocate for natural history and believed that America’s symbols should be native to the continent. The turkey was a bird that was well-known and revered by Native Americans, further solidifying its connection to the American identity.
Lastly, Franklin was known for his wit and humor, and he may have seen the choice of the turkey as a way to add a touch of humor to the nation’s identity. He famously wrote, “For my own part, I wish the bald eagle had not been chosen as the representative of our country. He is a bird of bad moral character. He does not get his living by fair means. He is a rapacious bird of preye. He is a true original native of America. The turkey is a much more respectable bird. He is much more noble.”
In conclusion, Benjamin Franklin’s choice of the turkey as the national bird was driven by his admiration for the bird’s qualities, his belief in America’s connection to its native wildlife, and his sense of humor. While the bald eagle ultimately became the symbol of the United States, Franklin’s preference for the turkey offers valuable insights into his character and his vision for the nation.
