Before the flag was official, what symbol was commonly used to represent the United States?

The Great Seal of the United States was commonly used to represent the nation before the flag became official. Created in 1782, the seal embodies the values, ideals, and sovereignty of the United States, featuring significant symbols such as the bald eagle, which represents freedom and strength. The seal served official purposes and was used on documents, proclamations, and treaties, signifying the United States’ authority and identity.

While the other symbols like the Liberty Bell, the Bald Eagle, and the Statue of Liberty hold great historical and cultural significance, they do not encapsulate the official representation of the United States in the same way the Great Seal does. The Liberty Bell symbolizes independence and is often associated with American liberty, the Bald Eagle is a national symbol for strength and freedom, and the Statue of Liberty represents hope and welcome to immigrants. However, none of these served as the official emblem of the government prior to the flag.