What do the symbols on the state seal represent?

The red and white stripes of the shield represent the states united under and supporting the blue, which represents the President and Congress. The color white is a symbol of purity and innocence; red represents hardiness and valor; and blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Why is Athena on the California seal?

The seal features the Roman goddess Minerva (Athena in Greek mythology), the goddess of wisdom and war. According to ancient Roman myth, the goddess Minerva was born fully grown. Just as Minerva was born fully grown, so California became a state without first having been a territory.

Why are there 31 stars on the California seal?

31 stars adorn the crest of the seal, representing the 31 states expected after California’s admission. Below the stars is the word Eureka -“I have found it” – the state’s motto, a likely reference to the discovery of gold.

Why does the California seal say Eureka?

Motto. The Greek word “Eureka” has appeared on the state seal since 1849 and means “I have found it.” The words were probably intended to refer to the discovery of gold in California.

What does the back of the Great Seal show what does it mean?

The design of the obverse is the coat of arms of the United States—an official emblem, mark of identification, and symbol of the authority of the government. On the reverse is an unfinished pyramid topped with an eye enclosed in a triangle. Above this are the words Annuit Cœptis (“He Has Favored Our Undertaking”).

What is the meaning of the state seal?

The seal of a nation or state is used today for authenticating documents of high importance or high ceremony issued in the name of the sovereign or the chief executive authority, such as the president or governor.

What does California’s motto mean?

I have found it
Official State Motto of California “Eureka” is a Greek word meaning “I have found it” – the famed Greek mathematician Archimedes is said to have exclaimed “Eureka!” when he finally discovered a method for determining the purity of gold. State Symbols: California State Library.

Why is the California symbol a bear?

The bear we see on the flag was modeled after Monarch, deemed the “last wild grizzly bear in California”. In 1889, William Randolph Hearst (son of Phoebe A. Hearst and donor of The Greek Theater) challenged his reporter, Allen Kelly, to capture a living California grizzly bear (Ursus arctos californicus).

What do the two bears on the seal symbolize?

Two grizzly bears on either side of the coat of arms symbolize the state’s strength and its citizens’ bravery.

What do the Roman numerals signify on the seal?

A scroll carries the state motto, Salus populi suprema lex esto, a Latin phrase meaning “Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law.” The year 1820 is inscribed in Roman numerals below the scroll, although Missouri was not officially granted statehood until 1821.

Why is the state seal important?

The Great Seal of the United States is the symbol of our sovereignty as a nation. Its obverse is used on official documents to authenticate the signature of the President and it appears on proclamations, warrants, treaties, and commissions of high officials of the government.

Why is the grizzly bear on the California state flag?

During the California-Mexico revolt, California had the idea to, “Put an emblem on the flag that would scare the Mexican authorities, that these people were serious,” said William Trinkle, founder of the Bear Flag Museum. And apparently that emblem was a bear.