The Pledge of Allegiance: A History

The video explores the history and evolution of the Pledge of Allegiance in the United States. It begins with the original version by Francis Bellamy, a Christian socialist, and its adoption in schools. The Pledge underwent changes in the 1920s and was officially recognized by Congress in 1942. The phrase 'under God' was added in 1954, influenced by Cold War sentiments and religious advocacy. Legal challenges have arisen, focusing on the Establishment Clause and the voluntary nature of reciting the Pledge. The video concludes with a call for viewer interaction.

Who originally wrote the Pledge of Allegiance?

• Benjamin Harris

• James Upham

• Francis Bellamy

• Edward Bellamy

What was the main reason for changing the words of the Pledge in the 1920s?

• To make it shorter

• To address new immigration waves

• To remove references to socialism

• To include the word 'God'

Who was instrumental in adding 'under God' to the Pledge of Allegiance?

• James Upham

• George MacPherson Dougherty

• Lewis Albert Bowman

• Dwight Eisenhower

In what year did Congress officially add 'under God' to the Pledge?

• 1952

• 1960

• 1942

• 1954

What was the outcome of the West Virginia Board of Education vs. Barnette case?

• The Pledge was banned in schools

• Students could not be forced to recite the Pledge

• The words 'under God' were removed

• The Pledge was declared unconstitutional

What was the main argument against the inclusion of 'under God' in the Pledge?

• It violates the Establishment Clause

• It is not historically accurate

• It is too long for children to remember

• It promotes socialism

Which case involved an atheist challenging the words 'under God' in the Pledge?

• West Virginia Board of Education vs. Barnette

• Brown vs. Board of Education

• Roe vs. Wade

• Elk Grove vs. Newdow