The Pledge of Allegiance is a statement of loyalty to the flag and the nation of the United States. It was originally written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy and has undergone several changes since then. The pledge is often recited at public events, schools, and government meetings, emphasizing patriotism and national unity. The current version of the pledge includes the phrase "under God," which was added in 1954 during the Cold War. The Pledge of Allegiance serves as a reminder of the values of freedom and democracy that the United States stands for, fostering a sense of community among its citizens.