To prepare students for effective citizenship, the author examines the Pledge of Allegiance and explores its meaning, history, and role in American history. The author includes quotes presenting different views of the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance and examples of pledges from different countries. Teachers are encouraged to have students examine their own interpretation of the Pledge. Through this lesson, teachers can promote content and critical-thinking skills as part of citizenship preparation. (Five handouts are appended: (1) Texas Pledge of Allegiance; (2) U.S. Pledge of Allegiance and Vocabulary; (3) Multiple Views on the Pledge of Allegiance; (4) Australian Pledge of Commitment; and (5) National Pledge of Barbados.)