The United States is a diverse and expansive nation, comprised of 50 states, each with its own unique identity and history. Beyond the physical borders and geographical boundaries, one aspect that distinguishes each state is its motto—a succinct phrase that encapsulates the essence of its values, history, or aspirations.
In this article, we will explore the mottos of each U.S. state along with their English meanings, shedding light on the inspiring messages that define the spirit of each region.
Alabama: “Audemus jura nostra defendere” – We dare defend our rights.
Alaska: “North to the Future” – A forward-looking vision for progress and growth.
Arizona: “Ditat Deus” – God enriches (or God enriches in Latin).
Arkansas: “Regnat populus” – The people rule.
California: “Eureka” – I have found it.
Colorado: “Nil sine numine” – Nothing without providence.
Connecticut: “Qui transtulit sustinet” – He who transplanted still sustains.
Delaware: “Liberty and Independence” – Emphasizing the foundational principles of freedom.
Florida: “In God We Trust” – A declaration of faith and reliance on divine guidance.
Georgia: “Wisdom, Justice, and Moderation” – Values promoting balanced governance.
Hawaii: “Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono” – The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.
Idaho: “Esto perpetua” – Let it be perpetual.
Illinois: “State sovereignty, national union” – Balancing state autonomy within the national context.
Indiana: “The Crossroads of America” – Reflecting the state’s central location and transportation significance.
Iowa: “Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain” – A commitment to safeguarding freedoms.
Kansas: “Ad astra per aspera” – To the stars through difficulties.
Kentucky: “United we stand, divided we fall” – Emphasizing the strength in unity.
Louisiana: “Union, justice, and confidence” – Key principles fostering a strong and just society.
Maine: “Dirigo” – I direct or I lead.
Maryland: “Fatti maschii, parole femine” – Manly deeds, womanly words.
Massachusetts: “Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem” – By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty.
Michigan: “Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam, circumspice” – If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.
Minnesota: “L’Étoile du Nord” – The Star of the North.
Mississippi: “Virtute et armis” – By valor and arms.
Missouri: “Salus populi suprema lex esto” – Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law.
Montana: “Oro y plata” – Gold and silver.
Nebraska: “Equality before the law” – Emphasizing fairness and justice for all.
Nevada: “All for our country” – A patriotic sentiment.
New Hampshire: “Live free or die” – Emphasizing the importance of freedom.
New Jersey: “Liberty and prosperity” – A commitment to individual freedoms and well-being.
New Mexico: “Crescit eundo” – It grows as it goes.
New York: “Excelsior” – Ever upward.
North Carolina: “Esse quam videri” – To be, rather than to seem.
North Dakota: “Liberty and union, now and forever, one and inseparable” – Emphasizing the enduring values of freedom and unity.
Ohio: “With God, all things are possible” – A declaration of faith and optimism.
Oklahoma: “Labor omnia vincit” – Labor conquers all things.
Oregon: “Alis volat propriis” – She flies with her own wings.
Pennsylvania: “Virtue, liberty, and independence” – Emphasizing moral values and the pursuit of freedom.
Rhode Island: “Hope” – A positive outlook for the future.
South Carolina: “Dum spiro spero” – While I breathe, I hope.
South Dakota: “Under God, the people rule” – Acknowledging divine guidance and the power of the people.
Tennessee: “Agriculture and Commerce” – Recognizing the economic pillars of the state.
Texas: “Friendship” – A nod to the state’s amicable spirit.
Utah: “Industry” – Celebrating hard work and diligence.
Vermont: “Freedom and unity” – Emphasizing the balance between individual freedom and collective unity.
Virginia: “Sic semper tyrannis” – Thus always to tyrants.
Washington: “Al-ki” – By and by (or Hope for the Future in Chinook Jargon).
West Virginia: “Montani semper liberi” – Mountaineers are always free.
Wisconsin: “Forward” – A call to progress and moving ahead.
Wyoming: “Equal rights” – Emphasizing the importance of equality.
Conclusion
The mottos of the United States’ 50 states showcase the rich tapestry of history, values, and aspirations that define each region. From declarations of faith and freedom to calls for unity and progress, these mottos encapsulate the diverse spirit of the nation, highlighting the principles that have shaped and continue to shape the United States.