Remarks
and Explanation by Charles Thomson
(prepared
for the Continental Congress before June 20, 1782)[1]
“The
Escutcheon is composed of the chief [upper part of shield] & pale
[perpendicular band], the two most honorable ordinaries [figures of heraldry].
The Pieces, paly [alternating pales], represent the several states all joined
in one solid compact entire, supporting a Chief, which unites the whole &
represents Congress. The Motto alludes to this union. The pales in the arms are
kept closely united by the Chief and the Chief depends on that union & the
strength resulting from it for its support, to denote the Confederacy of the
United States of America & the preservation of their union through
Congress.
“The
colours of the pales are those used in the flag of the United States of
America; White signifies purity and innocence, Red, hardiness & valour, and
Blue, the colour of the Chief signifies vigilance, perseverance & justice.
The Olive branch and arrows denote the power of peace & war which is
exclusively vested in Congress. The Constellation denotes a new State taking its
place and rank among other sovereign powers. The Escutcheon is born on the
breast of an American Eagle without any other supporters [figures represented
as holding up the shield] to denote that the United States of America ought to
rely on their own Virtue.
“Reverse.
The pyramid signifies Strength and Duration: The Eye over it & the Motto
allude to the many signal interpositions of providence in favour of the
American cause. The date underneath is that of the Declaration of Independence
and the words under it signify the beginning of the New American Era, which commences
from that date.”
[1] Source:
The Great Seal of the United States. U.S.
Department of State. Bureau of Public Affairs 2003 [http://publications.usa.gov/USAPubs.php?PubID=654]
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