For over one hundred years, it has been deeply ingrained in American culture. Saluting the flag in public schools began as part of a national effort to Americanize immigrants, its final six words imbuing it with universal hope and breathtaking power. Now Richard Ellis unfurls the fascinating history of the Pledge of Allegiance and of the debates and controversies that have sometimes surrounded it.

Includes index.

Creating the pledge -- The meaning of the pledge -- Spreading the pledge -- Making the pledge safe for democracy -- A nation under God -- Protesting the pledge -- One nation - indivisible? -- Conclusion: Pledging allegiance in a liberal society.