What do the symbols on the California state seal mean?
The seal shows the Roman goddess Minerva, known as Athena in Greek mythology, the goddess of wisdom and war, because she was born an adult, and California was never a territory; a California grizzly bear, the official state animal, feeding on grape vines, representing California’s wine production; a sheaf of grain.
What does California state seal look like?
California Seal of 1849 The seal features the Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva, has at her feet a grizzly bear and clusters of grapes representing wildlife and agricultural richness. Near the upper edge of the seal are 31 stars representing the number of states with California’s anticipated admission.
What do the symbols on the state seal mean?
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 Medusa on the California state seal?
According to mythology Minerva was born fully grown, leaping from the head of her father Jupiter. Similarly, California achieved statehood without first becoming a territory. Minerva’s shield displays the hideous head of Medusa.
What is the motto for California?
Eureka
California/Motto
Can you use the presidential seal?
In general, commercial use of the seal is prohibited by 18 USC 713 of the United States Code, and further defined by Executive Orders 11916 and 11649.
Where to see seals in California?
Where to See Harbor Seals. In California, some of the best locations for viewing common seals up close are at Cannery Row in Monterey, Moss Landing on Monterey Bay or at Bolinas Lagoon in Marin County.
What is the meaning of the California State Seal?
The seal of the state of California is a symbol of the authority and sovereignty of the state and is a valuable asset of its people. It is the intent of the state government to ensure that appropriate uses are made of the state seal and to assist the secretary of state in the performance of the secretary’s constitutional duty as custodian…
What is the Great Seal of the state of California?
The Great Seal, or the Great Seal of the State of California as it is officially called, is the impression made on “all commissions, pardons and other public instruments to which the signature of the Governor is required” with the attestation of the Secretary of State; the impression, with or without “wafer,” is made by a master die and counter die
What is a state seal?
The seal of a state is representative of its history, origins, and ideals. It also functions as a designation that a legal or government document has been created or sanctioned under state authority. The seals often serve as part of the letterhead of government leaders and agencies and appear on statute books, in courtrooms,…