The United Colonies of America? Between July 4th and September 9th, 1776, that’s what America was called, but the sound of “UCA! UCA!” didn’t cut it with members of the Continental Congress, so they officially changed it after running through most of the alphabet for the letter that would sound best when chanted at sporting events, making today
NATIONAL UNITED STATES NAMING DAY!
There’s nothing like an Official Proclamation from a newly formed nation to let the Mother Country know that Junior’s moving out, you’re a lousy Mom, and you always liked Canada better.
The Continental Congress did a great many things besides naming the USA, among them hiring George Washington, funding the Revolution, building a navy, securing foreign allies and managing to stay one step ahead of British armies determined to crush this upstart government.
Perhaps the most important act of the Continental Congress was to peacefully dissolve itself, handing over their power to the new form of government they fought and sacrificed to create. What’s in a name? A claim.
• Suggested activities: Making a bold statement.