Seal of Minnesota

Seal of Minnesota

The Seal of Minnesota is the official government emblem of the U.S. state of Minnesota. The seal is used to authenticate certain documents issued by the State of Minnesota and is a symbol of the authority and sovereignty of the state.

Design

The seal features a farmer plowing a field and a Native American riding a horse. The farmer is depicted with a plow, a muskets and a stump, symbolizing the tools used by early settlers. The Native American is riding towards the sunset, symbolizing the past and the westward expansion of the United States.

The motto "L'Étoile du Nord" (French for "The Star of the North") is displayed on a banner above the scene. This motto reflects Minnesota's status as the northernmost state in the contiguous United States. The seal also includes the year 1858, which is the year Minnesota was admitted to the Union.

History

The original seal was designed in 1858, the same year Minnesota became a state. Over the years, the seal has undergone several modifications to better reflect the state's heritage and values. The current design was officially adopted in 1983.

Usage

The Seal of Minnesota is used on official documents, such as laws, proclamations, and executive orders. It is also used on the flag of Minnesota and various state government buildings and vehicles.

Symbolism

The elements of the seal are rich in symbolism:

• The plow represents agriculture, which has been a cornerstone of Minnesota's economy.
• The muskets and stump symbolize the tools and efforts of early settlers.
• The Native American on horseback represents the state's Native American heritage and the history of the land before European settlement.
• The sunset signifies the westward expansion and the future.

See also

• Flag of Minnesota
• Symbols of Minnesota
• Great Seal of the United States
• List of U.S. state seals