Shortly after 1776, states began to adopt their own official state seals, mottos, nicknames, and much more, which are all used to symbolize and represent the uniqueness of each state that resides within the nation.
The famous and iconic state seal of Massachusetts is below, which was adopted in 1780, displays the coat of arms of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which is surrounded in an almost semi-circle shape by the words “Sigillum Reipublicae Massachusettensis” – this Latin phrase translates to “Seal of the Republic of Massachusetts”.
Massachusetts State Seal Meaning
The blue shield in the middle of the seal displays a Native American of the Algonquin Nation tribe, holding a bow in his right hand and an arrow in his left, the arrow is pointing downward, which is an indication of peacefulness. There is also a 5-pointed silver star just above his right arm, which represents Massachusetts as one of the 13 original states!
The crest located above features a blue and gold braid with an arm clutching onto a broadsword. This is reflective of the state’s famous motto, “Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem”, which translates to “by the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty”.
Most states will have their seals showcase a relevant story, that is indicative of the state and its history, and the Bay State is certainly no different.
