Franklin receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest U.S. civilian honor.
On November 9, 2005, Aretha Franklin received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush. This honor is the highest civilian award in the United States, recognizing individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. The award acknowledged her remarkable career and her influence in shaping the cultural fabric of the nation. It signified national recognition of her contributions to American music and her role as a symbol of artistic excellence.