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Great Seal > Mottoes > E Pluribus Unum
E PLURIBUS UNUM Origin and Meaning
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Translating E PLURIBUS UNUM
E Pluribus Unum describes an action: Many uniting into one. An accurate translation of the motto is "Out of many, one" a phrase that elegantly captures the symbolism on the shield. |
On August 20, 1776, this first committee submitted their design to Congress (including Ben Franklin's idea for a reverse side).
Although their designs were not approved (and two subsequent committees would be appointed), their motto was selected by Charles Thomson six years later when he created the final Great Seal in 1782 and inscribed E PLURIBUS UNUM on the scroll carried in the beak of the American bald eagle who carries the "power of peace" in his right talon.
In his official explanation of the Great Seal, Thomson said this motto refers to the union between the states and federal government, as symbolized by the shield of thirteen stripes on the eagle's breast.
Other symbols of unity on the Great Seal:
Bundle of 13 Arrows
Constellation of 13 Stars
In the 1770s, symbols of unity were seen in many places, especially on the money. See emblems on Continental Currency that inspired and reflected E Pluribus Unum.
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