On the eve of World War I, a humble Congressional page penned a creed so powerful it was adopted by Congress as the voice of America's political soul. Discover the story behind William Tyler Page and the timeless words that still call us to duty today.

At a recent historical event, I was introduced to The American's Creed. The Creed originated from a 1916 writing contest open to all Americans, seeking “the best summary of the political faith of America.” On the eve of World War I, educational journal editor Henry Sterling Chapin launched the contest to foster patriotism and civic responsibility. Mayor James H. Preston of Baltimore offered a prize of $1,000 (the equivalent of $27,690 today).  A distinguished and varied committee selected the winning entry by William Tyler Page, a descendant of Carter Braxton (a signer of the Declaration of Independence) and President John Tyler. Page began his public service career as a page in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1881 at the age of 13. In 1919, he was elected Clerk of the House, serving until 1931, and later held the honorary title of Emeritus Minority Clerk until his death in 1942. The American's Creed was selected from over 3,000 entries and formally accepted on April 3, 1918, by the Speaker of the House and the U.S. Commissioner of Education, representing the American people.		===== The American's Creed ===== I believe in the United States of America, as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed, a democracy in a republic, a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies.		May we live up to this creed…and the perfect way to start is through preserving our Constitution via Convention of States. Sign the petition (click here). Suzanne McPherson Mentor, State Content Writer, Volunteer Activist, Patriot Read more: * The American's Creed – USHistory.org * House Document No. 416, 1926 – GovInfo.gov