Primary Source Text Letter to Sarah Bache • January 26, 1784

Benjamin Franklin on the Turkey vs. the Bald Eagle

“For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character. He does not get his Living honestly. You may have seen him perched on some dead Tree, where, too lazy to fish for himself, he watches the Labour of the Fishing Hawk; and when that diligent Bird has at length taken a Fish, and is bearing it to his Nest for the Support of his Mate and young ones, the Bald Eagle pursues him and takes it from him.

Besides he is a rank Coward: the little King Bird not bigger than a Sparrow attacks him boldly and drives him out of the District.

I am on this account not displeased that the Figure is not known as a Bald Eagle, but looks more like a Turkey.

For the Truth is, the Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America.

He is besides, though a little vain and silly, a Bird of Courage, and would not hesitate to attack a Grenadier of the British Guards who should presume to invade his Farmyard with a red Coat on.”

Comprehension Tabs
Question view mode

Questions in each tab refer to Franklin’s description of the bald eagle and the turkey above. All questions are multiple choice.

1. What is Franklin’s main opinion about the bald eagle as the symbol of the United States?

Main idea: Franklin objects to the bald eagle as the “Representative of our Country.”

2. Which detail best shows why Franklin calls the bald eagle a “Bird of bad moral Character”?

Detail about laziness and stealing food from the Fishing Hawk.

3. What example does Franklin give to show that the bald eagle is a “rank Coward”?

Detail about the tiny King Bird boldly attacking and chasing the eagle.

4. Which statement best describes how Franklin compares the turkey to the bald eagle?

Detail about the turkey being “a much more respectable Bird… a true original Native of America” and courageous.

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