The Bellamy salute was the original hand gesture used during the United States Pledge of Allegiance. It was created by Francis Bellamy in 1892. Key Details
The Gesture: The salute involved extending the right arm straight out, palm up or slightly downward, pointing toward the flag.
The Change: During the 1920s and 30s, the gesture became controversial because of its striking similarity to the Fascist salute used in Italy and the Nazi salute in Germany.
The Replacement: On December 22, 1942, Congress officially amended the Flag Code, replacing the Bellamy salute with the current tradition of placing the right hand over the heart. Original 1892 Text The pledge accompanied by the salute was shorter than the modern version:
"I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
I can provide more history on the evolution of the Pledge of Allegiance text if needed.
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The Bellamy salute was the original hand gesture used during the United States Pledge of Allegiance. It was created by Francis Bellamy in 1892.
Key Details
Original 1892 Text
The pledge accompanied by the salute was shorter than the modern version:
I can provide more history on the evolution of the Pledge of Allegiance text if needed.