State Mottos of the United States: History, Languages, and Traditions
A motto is a formal phrase designed to express the core motivation or intention of an organization. In the United States, these short but powerful expressions serve as symbolic pillars for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several territories. Often appearing on state seals or state flags, these mottos reflect the unique history, values, and aspirations of each jurisdiction.
While some mottos are officially designated through legislative acts, others exist simply as integral elements of a state's official seal. This distinction creates a diverse landscape of official and unofficial symbols across the nation.
Key Facts
- All 50 U.S. states have a motto.
- The national motto of the United States is In God We Trust.
- English and Latin are the most common languages used, with 25 states/territories using each.
- South Carolina, Kentucky, North Dakota, and Vermont are among the few with two official mottos.
- Puerto Rico holds the distinction of having the earliest recorded motto, dating back to 1511.
The National Motto and Historical Context
The United States itself operates under a national motto: In God We Trust. This was proclaimed by Congress and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on July 30, 1956. Interestingly, the phrase first appeared on the state seal in 1868, long before its official legislative designation in 2006.
Before the current national motto, the phrase E pluribus unum (Latin for "out of many, one") was approved for use on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782. However, unlike the current motto, it was never formally adopted as the national motto through legislative action.
Language and Distribution
The linguistic diversity of American mottos is striking. While English and Latin are the dominant languages—each used by 25 states and territories—seven other languages are represented, with each language appearing only once. This variety highlights the diverse cultural heritage found within the country.
The placement of these mottos also varies. Thirty-eight states and four territories feature their mottos on their state seals, while eight states and two territories display them on their state quarters.
| Category | Count/Details |
|---|---|
| States with a motto | 50 |
| States with two mottos | 4 (SC, KY, ND, VT) |
| Territories without mottos | 2 (Guam, Northern Mariana Islands) |
| Most common languages | English and Latin (25 each) |
| Mottos on state seals | 38 states and 4 territories |
| Mottos on state quarters | 8 states and 2 territories |
Regional Examples and Variations
Different states utilize their mottos in unique ways. For instance, South Carolina maintains two official mottos, both of which are in Latin. Similarly, Kentucky, North Dakota, and Vermont utilize a combination of one Latin motto and one English motto.
Notable State Examples
- California: Uses the motto Eureka, which first appeared on the state seal in 1849 and was officially designated in 1963.
- Hawaii: The motto Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono was first used by King Kamehameha III in 1843 and became official in 1959.
- Oklahoma: The motto Labor omnia vincit was present on the territorial seal of 1893.
- Kansas: Features Ad astra per aspera on its state seal.
- New Hampshire: Uses Live Free or Die on its state quarter.
Historical Shifts and Unofficial Mottos
Mottos are not always static. Oregon, for example, used "The Union" from 1957 until 1987, when it restored its original 1854 motto, Alis volat propriis. Some states also have mottos that are not officially designated by law but appear on their seals, such as Georgia, where the words wisdom, justice, and moderation are part of the state seal.
In some cases, mottos are entirely unofficial. Washington's motto is neither on its seal nor designated by the legislature, though it was present on the territorial seal. Conversely, Puerto Rico boasts the oldest motto in the region, Joannes est nomen ejus, granted by the Spanish in 1511.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official motto of the United States?
The official national motto is In God We Trust, which was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956.
Which states have more than one motto?
South Carolina has two official mottos (both in Latin). Kentucky, North Dakota, and Vermont also have two mottos, consisting of one in Latin and one in English.
Are all state mottos official?
No. Some mottos are officially designated by state legislatures, while others are simply elements of the state seal. Some, like Washington's, are considered entirely unofficial.
What are the most common languages used in state mottos?
English and Latin are the most frequently used languages, with 25 states and territories utilizing each.
Which territory has the oldest motto?
Puerto Rico has the oldest motto, Joannes est nomen ejus, which was granted by the Spanish in 1511.