American Slogans

Here in America, there are parts of our culture that are just a way of life for most people. American Slogans have become remembered in a way that make them memorable and a part of the American lifestyle. Here are the most common American Slogans and a little bit of history about them.

1. Sweet Land of Liberty

This is a very popular American Slogan and for good reason. Originating from the song “My Country "Tis of Thee” in 1831, this slogan makes reference to the fact that America is a country based on freedom from an oppressive rule as well as the many civil liberties citizens enjoy today. The song was written by Samuel Francis Smith and would act as the national anthem until “The Star Bangled Banner” in 1931.

2. United We Stand, Divided We Fall

United We Stand, Divided We Fall is a phrase that was first documented in historical use in 1769 when John Dickinson used it in the Revolutionary War song "The Liberty Song”. It was then referenced by Patrick Henry in his last public speech before he died. This American Slogan is rather obvious in its meaning and means our nation is stronger when we stand together in a fight whether it be symbolic or real. The slogan regained popularity after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 when the nation was under great distress and unity was a core focus of the times.

3. Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death

This American Slogan actually did not originate from a song but is still rich in American history. Spoken by Patrick Henry in an impassioned speech he made to the Second Virginia Convention on March 23, 1775. These words are hailed as the inspiration for swaying the vote in Virginia on a resolution to deliver more troops for the Revolutionary War. This would become a major turning point in the battle for freedom and these words would be forever immortalized as a result. The meaning is rather self-explanatory and that fighting in a war against England to obtain freedom was a cause worth dying for in patriotic duty.

4. Freedom Isn't Free

This slogan was first referenced in a Paul Colwell song, “Freedom Isn’t Free”, in 1965. Since then, it has been featured in many songs, movies, and many cultural references. The meaning behind it is that freedom comes at a cost and that cost is the lives of American men and women fighting in war after war to secure our freedoms and our way of life. This slogan can be used as a way to show respect for these brave individuals as well as a way to acknowledge the history that has built our nation.