The History and Controversy of 'In God We Trust' on American Currency

Throughout American history, the motto 'In God We Trust' has been a central part of the nation's cultural and political identity. Its origins trace back to the principles of Deism, which were prominent among early American leaders such as Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. However, the inclusion of this motto began to evolve during periods of social and political change.

Deism and Early Adopters

Before the motto 'In God We Trust' was widely used, Deism played a significant role in American political thought. Deists like Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln believed in a Creator who did not directly intervene in human affairs but set in motion a divine purpose that was to be figured out through human reason. This belief was popular enough among early politicians that they would often refer to 'the Creator' or 'God' in their speeches.

During Thomas Jefferson's time, declaring oneself an 'atheist' was not politically viable. Instead, many embraced the label of 'Unitarian' or 'Deist' as a way to express their belief in a higher power without committing to specific doctrines like Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, or Islam.

The Inclusion of 'In God We Trust'

The slogan 'In God We Trust' officially became the national motto of the United States in 1956 during the McCarthy era. President Dwight D. Eisenhower pushed for the change, which also saw the addition of 'Under God' to the Pledge of Allegiance. This was a significant move that marked a shift in the religious tone of American public life.

Historical Context and Controversy

During the 1920s, a group of individuals known as 'American Christian Nazis' actively promoted similar national mottoes and values, including support for 'Under God' in the pledge. These individuals were part of a broader movement that aimed to influence American society to align more closely with Christian values.

Eisenhower's decision was influenced by the fear of communism and the desire to bolster national unity. Advocates argued that the new motto and pledge would promote a sense of religious and national cohesion, particularly as the country faced ideological challenges from the Soviet Union.

The Motto's Evolution and Current Status

Initially, 'In God We Trust' was placed on U.S. currency in 1864 during the Civil War, as a way to boost morale and support the war effort. However, it was not officially adopted as an official motto until 1956. The motto was chosen because it evoked a sense of tradition and served as a reminder of the country's founding values.

Today, the inclusion of 'In God We Trust' on currency is a subject of ongoing debate. Some argue that it reflects a religious bias and conflicts with the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of religion. On the other hand, supporters argue that it upholds the nation's historical values and promotes national unity.

Conclusion

The history of 'In God We Trust' on American currency is a reflection of the nation's evolving religious and political landscape. From the principles of Deism in the early days of the republic to the influence of American Christian Nazis during the McCarthy era, the inclusion of these words has been shaped by various social and political movements. While the motto remains a central part of American culture, its future and interpretation continue to be a subject of debate.