American Heritage Merit Badge for 2024

The American Heritage merit badge helps Scouts learn about the history of the United States. It focuses on important events and people that shaped the nation. By studying these, Scouts gain a better understanding of America’s past.

Scouts working on the American Heritage merit badge will explore different aspects of American history. They might learn about famous battles, historic documents, and important leaders. This helps Scouts see how the past affects the present.

The American Heritage merit badge also encourages Scouts to visit historic sites and museums. This gives them a chance to see history up close. These experiences make learning more fun and memorable.

Earning the American Heritage merit badge can benefit Scouts in many ways. It improves their knowledge of history and helps them appreciate their heritage. It also teaches research and critical thinking skills. These skills are useful in school and life.

Download the American Heritage Merit Badge Requirements

American Heritage Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

American Heritage Merit Badge Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for American Heritage Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the American Heritage Merit Badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

Understanding the Declaration of Independence

One requirement for the American Heritage merit badge is to read the Declaration of Independence. This document is very important in American history. A key part of the Declaration starts with “We hold these truths to be self-evident” and ends with “to provide new Guards for their future security.”

Here is an example that part in simpler words:

We believe these facts are obvious: All people are created equal. They have rights that cannot be taken away. These rights include life, freedom, and the chance to be happy. Governments are created to protect these rights. They get their power from the people. When a government does not protect these rights, the people can change or replace it. The people have the right to form a new government that will keep them safe and protect their rights.

That is just an example. You should rewrite the section in your own words.

After reading this, you should talk to your merit badge counselor about why the Declaration of Independence is important to all Americans. This discussion helps you understand why these ideas still matter today. The American Heritage merit badge uses activities like this to teach you about your country’s history and values.

Exploring Key Figures in American History

For the American Heritage merit badge, one option is to select two individuals from American history. Pick one political leader, like a president or senator, and one private citizen, like a writer or religious leader. Learn about their accomplishments. Compare how each person contributed to America’s heritage. This will help you understand the different ways people have shaped the nation.

For example, you could study Abraham Lincoln and Harriet Tubman to see how both a president and a private citizen fought against slavery.

Investigating Influential Organizations

Another option for the American Heritage merit badge is to study an organization that has promoted positive change in American society. With your counselor’s approval, choose an organization, such as the American Red Cross or the Civil Rights Movement. Find out why the organization wanted to make a change and how it succeeded.

Discuss how the organization’s efforts relate to events or situations from America’s past. This helps you see how groups can make a big impact on society.

Learning from Military Veterans

You can also choose to interview two veterans of the U.S. military for the American Heritage merit badge. With your counselor’s approval, ask the veterans about their experiences and what they believe they accomplished. This activity helps you appreciate the service and sacrifices made by military personnel.

For example, you might learn about their roles in different wars or missions and how their service has influenced their lives and the country.

Understanding Community Views

The last option is to interview three people in your community of different ages and occupations. With your counselor’s approval, ask them what America means to them, what they think is special about the country, and which American traditions are important to preserve. This gives you a broad perspective on American values and traditions.

For instance, talking to a teacher, a firefighter, and a senior citizen can provide diverse insights into what makes America unique.

Connecting Current Events to American History

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to select a topic related to the United States that is currently in the news. First, describe to your counselor what is happening. This helps you stay informed about important events. Next, explain how today’s events are related to or affected by the events and values of America’s past.

For example, you might choose the topic of voting rights. You can describe how new laws or court cases are affecting people’s ability to vote. Then, explain how this relates to the history of voting rights in America, such as the struggle for suffrage and the Civil Rights Movement. Discuss how the values of equality and democracy continue to influence current events.

Another example could be environmental policies. You can describe recent news about climate change or conservation efforts. Then, connect these events to America’s history of environmentalism, like the creation of national parks and the Environmental Protection Agency. Discuss how past values of preserving natural resources shape today’s actions.

By doing this, you will see how the past and present are connected and understand the ongoing impact of America’s historical events and values. This activity helps you learn about your country and become a more informed citizen.

Understanding Symbols of American Heritage

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to learn about important symbols of the United States. You will describe how each was adopted, any changes over time, and how they influence Americans today. This helps you appreciate these symbols’ importance and their role in American identity.

The United States Flag

The American flag was adopted on June 14, 1777. It originally had 13 stars and 13 stripes, representing the original colonies. Over time, stars were added as new states joined the Union, now totaling 50 stars. The flag symbolizes freedom and unity. It continues to be a powerful symbol of national pride and patriotism.

The Pledge of Allegiance

The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy. It was adopted by Congress in 1942. The words “under God” were added in 1954. The Pledge is recited in schools and public events to express loyalty to the flag and the country. It teaches respect for the nation and its values.

The Great Seal of the United States

The Great Seal was adopted on June 20, 1782. It features an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows, symbolizing peace and war. The design has remained mostly unchanged. The Great Seal is used on official documents and currency, representing the authority and sovereignty of the United States.

The Motto

The national motto, “In God We Trust,” was adopted in 1956. It appears on coins and paper money. The motto reflects the country’s religious heritage and trust in a higher power. It continues to influence Americans by reminding them of their shared values and beliefs.

The National Anthem

“The Star-Spangled Banner” was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814 and adopted as the national anthem in 1931. The lyrics were inspired by the sight of the American flag during the War of 1812. The anthem is played at sports events and ceremonies, promoting unity and national pride.

Discovering Your Family’s American Journey

For the American Heritage merit badge, you can research your family’s history. Start by talking to relatives and looking at old documents or photos. Find out how events in American history affected your family. Did they live through the Great Depression, serve in a war, or benefit from the Civil Rights Movement?

If your family immigrated to America, learn why they came. Was it for better job opportunities, to escape conflict, or for a better life? Share these stories with your counselor. This activity helps you understand how your family fits into the larger story of America and appreciate the challenges and opportunities they faced.

Exploring the National Register of Historic Places

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to learn about the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of buildings, sites, and objects important to American history. To be eligible, a property must be at least 50 years old, look much like it did in the past, and have historical, architectural, or cultural significance.

You can see the National Register of Historic Places here.

Create a map of your local area with historical points of interest. You can enter your zipcode here to see a map of your area with historic places. Research any properties in your area that are listed on the National Register. Share your map with your counselor and describe the historical points you noted. This activity helps you understand the importance of preserving history and recognizing significant places in your community.

Researching Local Historical Events

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to research an event of historical importance that took place in or near your area.

Start by looking at local libraries, museums, or historical societies for information. Try to visit the location if possible. Tell your counselor about the event and its impact on local history. Describe how the area looked at the time of the event and how it looks now. This helps you understand the changes over time and the significance of local history.

Discovering Your Town’s Origins

Find out when, why, and how your town or neighborhood started. Visit local historical societies, libraries, or city hall for records and information. Learn about the ethnic, national, or racial groups that contributed to its development. Research how the area has changed over the past 50 years and try to explain why.

This gives you insight into the diverse influences that have shaped your community and the factors driving its evolution.

Participating in Historical Programs

Take part in a program about an event or person in American history. Look for programs at local museums, historical societies, or community centers. It could be a reenactment, a presentation, or a community celebration.

After participating, report to your counselor about the program, your role, and what you learned. This hands-on experience makes history come alive and helps you connect with the past.

Visiting Historic Trails or Walks

Visit a historic trail or walk in your area. You can find these locations through local tourism websites, park services, or historical societies.

The National Historic Trails Site has a map where you can see if any of the trails listed there run through your area.

After your visit, share with your counselor what you learned about the location’s history and significance. Discuss why you think it might qualify for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. This activity helps you appreciate the historical importance of places in your community and the efforts to preserve them.

Learning History Through Movies

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to watch two movies set in a period of American history. Make sure to get approval from your counselor and parent before watching them. After watching, describe to your counselor how accurate each film is regarding historical events and character portrayals. This helps you learn about history in an engaging way.

Here are some movie suggestions. Add your own to the comments.

• Remember the Titans – Set in the 1970s, this movie tells the true story of a high school football team that overcomes racial tension.
• Hidden Figures – This movie is about three African American women mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race.
• October Sky – This movie is based on the true story of a young boy inspired by the launch of Sputnik to build rockets in 1950s West Virginia.
• Lincoln – This movie focuses on President Abraham Lincoln’s efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment and end the Civil War.
• Apollo 13 – This film tells the true story of the Apollo 13 mission after an explosion damaged the spaceship, and the efforts to bring the astronauts home safely.
• The Sandlot – Set in the 1960s, this movie captures the childhood experiences of a group of boys who play baseball together.
• A League of Their Own – This movie is about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II.
• The Long Walk Home – This film depicts the Montgomery Bus Boycott through the eyes of two women, one black and one white.

These movies help bring American history to life and provide a starting point for discussing historical accuracy and character portrayals.

Exploring American Heritage Through Biographies

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to read a biography of someone who has contributed to America’s heritage. Make sure to get your counselor’s approval before choosing the book. After reading, tell your counselor some things you admire and do not admire about the person. Explain why you think this person made a positive or negative contribution to America’s heritage. This helps you understand different perspectives and the impact of individuals on history.

Here are some biography suggestions appropriate for middle school and high school students:

• “Steve Jobs: The Man Who Thought Different” by Karen Blumenthal – This book explores the life of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, and his influence on technology and innovation.
• “Alexander Hamilton: The Making of America” by Teri Kanefield – This biography covers the life of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers. There are also other books in the Making of America series.
• “Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery” by Russell Freedman – This book details the life and contributions of Eleanor Roosevelt, a significant figure in American history.
• “Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad” by Ann Petry – This biography highlights Harriet Tubman’s bravery and efforts in leading slaves to freedom.
• “Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice” by Phillip Hoose – This book tells the story of Claudette Colvin, a teenager who was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated bus, sparking the Civil Rights Movement.
• “Who Was Walt Disney?” by Whitney Stewart – This biography explores the life of Walt Disney and his contributions to American entertainment and culture.

Reading these biographies will help you learn about different individuals who have shaped America’s heritage and understand the complexities of their contributions.

Understanding History Through Music

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to listen to recordings of popular songs from different periods in American history. Share these songs with your counselor and describe how each song reflects people’s feelings about the time it was popular. This helps you see how music can capture the emotions and events of different eras.

Here are some examples of songs from different periods:

• “Yankee Doodle” (Revolutionary War) – Reflects patriotism and the spirit of independence.
• “The Star-Spangled Banner” (War of 1812) – Shows the resilience and pride of Americans during wartime.
• “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” (Civil War era) – Represents the hope and struggle of African American slaves.
• “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” (Great Depression) – Captures the despair and hardship of the 1930s.
• “Over There” (World War I) – Captures the patriotic fervor and the call to duty during the Great War.
• “This Land Is Your Land” (1940s) – Woody Guthrie’s song highlights themes of equality and the American landscape.
• “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” (World War II) – Shows the energy and support for troops during the war.
• “We Shall Overcome” (Civil Rights Movement) – Reflects the determination and unity of the fight for civil rights.
• “Blowin’ in the Wind” (1960s) – Bob Dylan’s song became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement, questioning social justice.
• “Fortunate Son” (1969) – Creedence Clearwater Revival’s song reflects the anti-war sentiment and class issues during the Vietnam War.
• “I Will Survive” (1970s) – Gloria Gaynor’s hit represents personal empowerment and resilience of women, resonating with the spirit of the 1970s.
• “Born in the U.S.A.” (1980s) – Bruce Springsteen’s hit offers a critical view of the American Dream and post-Vietnam War America.

This activity helps you understand how music can express the feelings and experiences of people throughout American history.

Exploring Careers in American Heritage

For the American Heritage merit badge, you need to discuss career opportunities in American heritage with your counselor. This helps you understand how you can work in fields that preserve and promote American history and culture.

Here are some careers related to American heritage:

• Historian – Researches and writes about past events.
• Museum Curator – Manages museum collections and exhibits.
• Archivist – Preserves and organizes historical documents.
• Historic Preservationist – Works to protect and restore historic buildings and sites.
• Park Ranger – Protects and educates about national parks and historic sites.
• History Teacher – Educates students about American history.
• Genealogist – Researches family histories and ancestry.
• Documentary Filmmaker – Creates films about historical events and figures.
• Cultural Resource Manager – Manages cultural resources and heritage sites.
• Archaeologist – Studies human history through excavation and artifacts.

Education and training for careers in American heritage often include a strong background in history, research skills, and specialized knowledge in your chosen field. Discussing these careers with your counselor can help you plan your education and career path in American heritage.

Historic Trails Program

If you’re working on the American Heritage merit badge, check out the Historic Trails Program. This program recognizes Scouts who plan and carry out a historic outdoor activity. To earn the award, your unit must locate a historic trail, hike or camp for two days and one night, and cooperate with a local historic society. You can help restore the trail or plan a public event. This program is a great way to connect with history and the community. For more information, visit your local historic society or library to get started on this exciting journey.

Living History Program Feature for Scouts BSA

If you’re working on the American Heritage merit badge, also check out the Living History program feature from BSA. This program helps Scouts experience different cultures and historical events in a hands-on way. Available in digital format or as a publication, the program includes activities like reenactments, historical cooking, and making period costumes. It also offers troop meeting ideas and outdoor activities. This resource is perfect for Scouts who want to dive deeper into American history.

What is the American Heritage merit badge?

The American Heritage merit badge helps Scouts learn about the history and culture of the United States. It involves activities like research, visiting historical sites, and understanding important documents and events.

What will I learn by earning the American Heritage merit badge?

You will learn about key events and figures in American history, visit historical places, and understand how America’s past affects its present and future.

Do I visit a historical site for the American Heritage merit badge?

Visiting a historical site is an option for one of the requirements. You can visit places like museums, battlefields, or historical landmarks.

Can I choose any movie or biography for the American Heritage merit badge?

You need to get approval from your counselor and parent before choosing a movie or biography. It should be related to American history and heritage.

How do I find songs for the American Heritage merit badge?

You can look for recordings of popular songs from different periods of American history online or at a library. If you can’t find recordings, you can use the lyrics. A suggested list is provided here.

What kind of careers are related to the American Heritage merit badge?

Careers include historian, museum curator, archivist, park ranger, history teacher, genealogist, and archaeologist. These careers focus on preserving and teaching about American history.

How can I research my family’s history for the American Heritage merit badge?

Talk to relatives, look at old documents and photos, and use online resources. Find out how events in American history affected your family.

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

It is a list of places that are important to American history. Properties must be at least 50 years old and have historical significance to be listed.

The American Heritage merit badge helps Scouts learn about the history and culture of the United States. Through various activities, Scouts explore important events, visit historical sites, and understand how America’s past shapes its present and future. This badge encourages Scouts to dive into the stories and places that have made the country what it is today.

Scouts will read the Declaration of Independence, research historical figures, and learn about significant symbols like the American flag and the national anthem. They also explore their own family history and how it connects to broader historical events. By visiting historical places and listening to music from different eras, Scouts gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of American heritage.

Earning the American Heritage merit badge also includes discussing career opportunities in history-related fields. Scouts can learn about roles like historian, museum curator, and park ranger. These careers help preserve and teach about American history, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate their heritage.

This merit badge not only teaches historical facts but also helps develop research and critical thinking skills. Scouts learn to analyze information, compare different perspectives, and present their findings. The American Heritage merit badge is a journey into the past that provides valuable lessons for the present and future.