Editing List of U.S. state and territory mottos

{{Short description|None}}
[[File:Seal of California.svg|thumb|upright|''[[Eureka (word)|Eureka]]'', the motto of [[California]] on [[Seal of California|its state seal]]]]
[[File:Seal of Colorado.svg|thumb|upright|''[[Nil sine numine]]'', the motto of [[Colorado]] on [[Seal of Colorado|its state seal]]]]
[[File:2008 HI Proof.png|thumb|upright|''[[Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono]]'', the motto of [[Hawaii]] on its [[50 State Quarters|state quarter]]]]
[[File:2002 IN Proof.png|thumb|upright|Crossroads of America, the motto of [[Indiana]] on its [[50 State Quarters|state quarter]]]]
[[File:Great Seal of the State of Kansas Colored.svg|thumb|upright|[[Ad astra per aspera]], the motto of [[Kansas]] on [[Seal of Kansas|its state seal]]]]
[[File:2000 NH Proof.png|thumb|upright|[[Live Free or Die]], the motto of [[New Hampshire]] on its [[50 State Quarters|state quarter]]]]
[[File:Seal of Oklahoma.svg|thumb|upright|[[Labor omnia vincit]], the motto of [[Oklahoma]]]]
[[File:Seal of South Carolina.svg|thumb|upright|[[South Carolina]] has two state mottos]]
[[File:2001 VT Proof.png|thumb|upright|[[Freedom and Unity]], the motto of [[Vermont]] on its [[50 State Quarters|state quarter]]]]
[[File:Seal of Missouri.svg|thumb|upright|[[Salus populi suprema lex esto]], the motto of [[Missouri]] on [[Great Seal of Missouri|its state seal]]|alt=]]

All of the [[U.S. state|United States' 50 states]] have a state [[motto]], as do the [[District of Columbia]] and 3 of [[U.S. territories|its territories]]. A motto is a phrase intended to formally describe the general motivation or intention of an organization. State mottos can sometimes be found on [[Seals of the U.S. states|state seals]] or [[Flags of the U.S. states|state flags]]. Some states have officially designated a state motto by an act of the [[State legislature (United States)|state legislature]], whereas other states have the motto only as an element of their seals. The motto of the United States itself is ''[[In God We Trust]]'', proclaimed by Congress and signed into law by President [[Dwight D. Eisenhower]] on July 30, 1956.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.treas.gov/education/fact-sheets/currency/in-god-we-trust.shtml|title=History of 'In God we Trust'|publisher=U.S. Treasury|access-date=2009-02-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090228174920/http://www.treas.gov/education/fact-sheets/currency/in-god-we-trust.shtml|archive-date=2009-02-28}}</ref> The motto "{{lang|la|[[E pluribus unum]]}}" ([[Latin]] for 'out of many, one') was approved for use on the [[Great Seal of the United States]] in 1782, but was never adopted as the national motto through legislative action.

[[South Carolina]] has two official mottos, both which are in Latin.<ref name=SC/> [[Kentucky]], [[North Dakota]], and [[Vermont]] also have two mottos, one in Latin and the other in English.<ref name="KY"/><ref name="ND">{{cite web|url=http://www.nd.gov/content.htm?parentCatID=74&id=State%20Coat%20of%20Arms|title=State Coat of Arms|publisher=State of North Dakota|access-date=2016-10-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160926113105/https://www.nd.gov/content.htm?parentCatID=74&id=State%20Coat%20of%20Arms|archive-date=2016-09-26|url-status=dead}}</ref> All other states and territories have only one motto, except for [[Guam]] and the [[Northern Mariana Islands]], which do not have any mottos.<ref name="Shearer">{{cite book |last1=Shearer |first1=Benjamin F. |last2=Shearer |first2=Barbara S. |title=State Names, Seals, Flags, and Symbols: A Historical Guide |date=2002 |publisher=[[Greenwood Publishing Group|Greenwood Press]] |isbn=9780313315343 |page=24 |edition=Third}}</ref> English and Latin are the most-used languages for state mottos, each used by 25 states and territories. Seven states and territories use another language, of which each language is only used once. Eight states and two territories have their mottos on their [[50 State Quarters|state quarter]]; thirty-eight states and four territories have their mottos on their state seals.

The dates given are, where possible, the earliest date that the motto was used in an official sense. Some state mottos are not official but are on the official state seal; in these cases the adoption date of the seal is given. The earliest use of a current motto is that of [[Puerto Rico]], {{lang|la|Joannes est nomen ejus}}, granted to the island by the Spanish in 1511.<ref name=PR/>

==State, federal district and territory mottos==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+
|-
! scope="col" | Jurisdiction
! scope="col" | Motto
! scope="col" | English translation
! scope="col" | Language
! scope="col" | Date
! scope="col" class="unsortable"| {{Reference heading}}
|-
| [[Alabama]]
| {{lang|la|[[Audemus jura nostra defendere]]}}
|We dare defend our rights
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1923}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.archives.state.al.us/emblems/st_motto.html |title=Official Alabama Motto |access-date=2009-02-06 |date=February 13, 2008 |work=Alabama Emblems, Symbols and Honors |publisher=Alabama Department of Archives & History |archive-date=2018-12-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225002/http://www.archives.state.al.us/emblems/st_motto.html%20 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|-
| [[Alaska]]
|[[North to the Future]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1967}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web |url=http://alaska.gov/kids/student.htm |title=State Symbols |publisher=State of Alaska |access-date=2019-05-13 |archive-date=2016-05-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522050300/http://alaska.gov/kids/student.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
|[[American Samoa]]
| {{lang|sm|Samoa, Muamua Le Atua}}
| Samoa, let [[Atua]] be first
|[[Samoan language|Samoan]]
|{{dts|1973}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://americansamoa.gov/history/samhist_forweb.pdf |title=The Samoan Historical Calendar, 1607-2007 |last=Sorensen |first=Stan |author2=Theroux, Joseph |page=57 |publisher=American Samoa Government |access-date=2009-03-07 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080626050638/http://americansamoa.gov/history/samhist_forweb.pdf |archive-date=2008-06-26 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Arizona]]
| {{lang|la|[[Ditat Deus]]}}
|God enriches
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1863}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://az.gov/webapp/portal/displaycontent.jsp?id=1963|title=Arizona State Seal|publisher=State of Arizona|access-date=2009-02-07|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090610051218/http://az.gov/webapp/portal/displaycontent.jsp?id=1963|archive-date=2009-06-10}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azsos.gov/Info/state_seal/history.htm |title=History of the Arizona State Seal |publisher=Arizona Secretary of State |access-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211222417/http://www.azsos.gov/info/state_seal/history.htm |archive-date=2009-02-11 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Arkansas]]
| {{lang|la|[[Regnat populus]]}}{{#tag:ref|The motto was originally designated as {{lang|la|Regnant populi}} in 1864. It was changed to {{lang|la|Regnat populus}} in 1907.<ref name=AR/>|group=N}}
|The people rule
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1907}}
|align="center"|<ref name=AR>{{cite web|url=http://www.soskids.arkansas.gov/civics_curriculum/4th_Grade/Lesson-4-3/4-3-Att1-Great-Seal.pdf|title=The Great Seal of Arkansas|publisher=State of Arkansas|access-date=2009-02-14|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224941/https://www.sos.arkansas.gov/education|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[California]]
|''[[Eureka (word)|Eureka]]'' ({{lang|el|Εὕρηκα}})
|I have found it
|[[Greek language|Greek]]
|{{dts|1849}}<!--1849 on seal, 1963 official-->{{#tag:ref|''Eureka'' first appeared on the state seal in 1849. It was designated the official motto in 1963.<ref name=CA/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=CA>{{cite web|url=http://www.library.ca.gov/history/symbols.html#Heading11|title=History and Culture - State Symbols|publisher=State of California|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2019-01-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190105214315/http://www.library.ca.gov/california-history/state-symbols/#Heading11|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[Colorado]]
| {{lang|la|[[Nil sine numine]]}}
|Nothing without providence
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1861|11|6}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.colorado.gov/dpa/doit/archives/history/symbemb.htm|title=Colorado State Archives Symbols & Emblems|publisher=State of Colorado|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2019-01-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190107145753/https://www.colorado.gov/archives|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Connecticut]]
| {{lang|la|[[Qui transtulit sustinet]]}}
|He who transplanted still sustains
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1662|10|9}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ct.gov/sots/cwp/view.asp?a=3188&q=392608|title=Sites, Seals & Symbols|date=June 9, 2008|publisher=State of Connecticut|access-date=2009-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101210041918/http://www.ct.gov/sots/cwp/view.asp?a=3188&q=392608|archive-date=2010-12-10|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[Delaware]]
|[[Liberty and Independence]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1847}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://portal.delaware.gov/delfacts/gov.shtml|title=Delaware Facts and Symbols|date=14 August 2008|publisher=State of Delaware|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224942/http://portal.delaware.gov/delfacts/gov.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[District of Columbia]]
| {{lang|la|Justitia Omnibus}}
|Justice for all
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1871|8|3}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://about.dc.gov/about.asp?portal_link=hr|title=About District of Columbia|publisher=District of Columbia|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2012-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120215092653/http://about.dc.gov/about.asp?portal_link=hr|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Florida]]
|[[In God We Trust]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1868}}<!--1868 on seal, 2006 official-->{{#tag:ref|"In God We Trust" first appeared on the state seal in 1868. It was designated the official motto in 2006.<ref name="FL"/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=FL>{{cite web|url=http://myflorida.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/myflorida.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=682&p_created=1028703600&p_sid=9zkHj3Ri&p_lva=695&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ9MSZwX3Byb2RzPTAmcF9jYXRzPTAmcF9wdj0mcF9jdj0mcF9wYWdlPTEmcF9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD1tb3R0bw**&p_li=&p_topview=1|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719143552/http://myflorida.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/myflorida.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=682&p_created=1028703600&p_sid=9zkHj3Ri&p_lva=695&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ9MSZwX3Byb2RzPTAmcF9jYXRzPTAmcF9wdj0mcF9jdj0mcF9wYWdlPTEmcF9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD1tb3R0bw**&p_li=&p_topview=1|url-status=dead|archive-date=2012-07-19|title=What is the state motto of Florida?|publisher=State of Florida|access-date=2009-02-07}}</ref>
|-
|[[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]]
|Wisdom, Justice, Moderation{{#tag:ref|Georgia never officially adopted a state motto; the words ''[[wisdom]]'', ''[[justice]]'', and ''[[moderation]]'' come from [[Seal of Georgia (U.S. state)|its state seal]].<ref name="GA"/>|group=N}}
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1798}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://georgia.gov/georgia-facts-and-symbols|title=State Seal|publisher=State of Georgia|access-date=2009-02-14|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140524123552/http://georgia.gov/georgia-facts-and-symbols|archive-date=2014-05-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sos.georgia.gov/archives/state_symbols/state_symbols.html|title=Georgia State Symbols|publisher=State of Georgia|access-date=2009-04-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121130190056/http://sos.georgia.gov/archives/state_symbols/state_symbols.html|archive-date=2012-11-30|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=GA>{{cite web |title=Government - Georgia State Motto |url=https://georgiainfo.galileo.usg.edu/topics/government/article/georgia-state-symbols/georgia-state-motto-wisdom-justice-and-moderation |website=GeorgiaInfo |publisher=Digital Library of Georgia |access-date=20 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200811162410/https://georgiainfo.galileo.usg.edu/topics/government/article/georgia-state-symbols/georgia-state-motto-wisdom-justice-and-moderation|archive-date=11 August 2020}}</ref>
|-
|[[Guam]]
| {{n/a}}<!--Guam does not have a motto! Neither "Land of the Chamorros" or "Where America's Day Begins" has any official or unofficial status, but are rather slogans. The [[Seal of Guam]] does not have a motto on it. Any changes require an OFFICIAL source.-->

| {{n/a}}
| {{n/a}}
| {{n/a}}
|align="center"|<ref name="Shearer"/>
|-
|[[Hawaiʻi]]
|{{lang|haw|[[Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono|Ua mau ke ea o ka {{okina}}āina i ka pono]]}}
|The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness/*The sovereignty of the land is perpetuated in righteousness
*When first said by King Kamehameha (Kauikeaouli) in July 1843. It originally meant "The sovereignty of the land is perpetuated in righteousness." The State of Hawaiʻi letter translate the saying as "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness." In Hawaiian, Ea means life and also sovereignty, leading to this slight difference in translation.
|[[Hawaiian language|Hawaiian]]
|{{dts|1843|7|31}}{{#tag:ref|The motto of Hawaiʻi was first used by King [[Kamehameha&nbsp;III]] in 1843, after his restoration. In May 1845 it first appeared on the coat of arms of the [[Kingdom of Hawaiʻi]]. It was made the official motto of the State of Hawaiʻi on May 1, 1959.<ref name=HI/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hawaii.gov/dbedt/info/economic/library/facts/state|title=Hawaii, the Aloha State|date=2009-01-14|publisher=State of Hawaii|access-date=2009-03-02|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225045/http://dbedt.hawaii.gov/economic/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=HI>{{cite web|url=http://www.netstate.com/states/mottoes/hi_motto.htm|title=Hawaii State Motto|publisher=NETSTATE.COM|access-date=2009-02-15|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224937/http://www.netstate.com/states/mottoes/hi_motto.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Idaho]]
| {{lang|la|[[Esto perpetua]]}}
|Let it be perpetual
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1890}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.idahohistory.net/Reference%20Series/0134.pdf|title=Idaho's State Motto|date=March 1970|publisher=Idaho State Historical Society|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224901/http://www.idahohistory.net/Reference%20Series/0134.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Illinois]]
|State sovereignty, national union
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1819}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sos.state.il.us/general/seal.html |title=Seal of the State of Illinois |publisher=State of Illinois |access-date=2009-02-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090131084651/http://www.sos.state.il.us/general/seal.html |archive-date=2009-01-31 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Indiana]]
|[[Crossroads of America]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1937}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.in.gov/history/files/Emblems.pdf|title=Emblems|publisher=State of Indiana|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2011-09-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110915153347/http://www.in.gov/history/files/Emblems.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[Iowa]]
|Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1847}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legis.state.ia.us/Pubinfo/StateSymbols/ |title=Iowa State Symbols |publisher=State of Iowa |access-date=2009-02-07 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100430004137/http://www.legis.state.ia.us/Pubinfo/StateSymbols/ |archive-date=2010-04-30 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Kansas]]
| {{lang|la|[[Ad astra per aspera]]}}
|To the stars through difficulties
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1861}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.governor.ks.gov/Facts/kansasseal.htm |title=Kansas Seal |publisher=State of Kansas |access-date=2009-02-07 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090129164251/http://governor.ks.gov/Facts/kansasseal.htm |archive-date=January 29, 2009 }}</ref>
|-
|rowspan=2|[[Kentucky]]
|[[United we stand, divided we fall]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1942}}
|align="center"|<ref name="KY">{{cite web|url=http://kdla.ky.gov/resources/KYSymbols.htm|title=Kentucky's State Symbols|date=2008-01-29|publisher=Commonwealth of Kentucky|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081222124236/http://www.kdla.ky.gov/resources/kysymbols.htm <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2008-12-22}}</ref>
|-
| {{lang|la|Deo gratiam habeamus}}
|Let us be grateful to God
|[[Latin]]
|2002
|align="center"|<ref name="KY2">The Latin motto was adopted by [http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/recarch/02rs/HB857.htm HB 857] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525063235/http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/recarch/02rs/HB857.htm |date=2017-05-25 }} and is defined by [http://www.lrc.ky.gov/krs/002-00/105.PDF KRS 2.105] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605152742/http://www.lrc.ky.gov/krs/002-00/105.PDF |date=2013-06-05 }}.</ref>
|-
|[[Louisiana]]
|Union, justice, confidence
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1902}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://louisiana.gov/Explore/Kids_Page/|title=Kids' Page|publisher=State of Louisiana|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101126074129/http://louisiana.gov/Explore/Kids_Page/|archive-date=2010-11-26|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[Maine]]
| {{lang|la|[[Seal of Maine#Motto|Dirigo]]}}
|I lead
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1820}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maine.gov/legis/senate/statehouse/symbols/Emblems.htm |title=Emblems |publisher=State of Maine |access-date=2009-02-07 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090510161023/http://www.maine.gov/legis/senate/statehouse/symbols/Emblems.htm |archive-date=2009-05-10 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Maryland]]
| {{lang|it|[[Seal of Maryland|Fatti maschi, parole femine]]}}
|Strong deeds, gentle words 
|[[Italian language|Italian]]
|{{dts|1874}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/symbols/reverse.html|title=Maryland State Seal - Great Seal of Maryland (reverse)|date=April 21, 2005|work=Maryland State Archives|publisher=State of Maryland|access-date=2009-02-14|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225042/https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/symbols/reverse.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/symbols/seal.html|title=Maryland State Seal - Great Seal of Maryland|date=June 17, 2004|work=Maryland State Archives|publisher=State of Maryland|access-date=2009-02-14|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224855/https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/symbols/seal.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Massachusetts]]
|{{lang|la|[[Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem]]}}
|By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1775}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cismaf/mf1a.htm|title=Massachusetts Facts|publisher=Commonwealth of Massachusetts|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2012-04-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414211235/http://www.sec.state.ma.us/cis/cismaf/mf1a.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Michigan]]
| {{lang|la|[[Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam circumspice]]}}
|If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1835|6|2}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192-29938-22823--,00.html|title=History of the Great Seal|publisher=State of Michigan|access-date=2009-02-14|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224839/https://www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192-29938-22823--,00.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=State Motto|url=http://www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192-29938_30245-2606--,00.html|publisher=State of Michigan|access-date=22 August 2010|archive-date=24 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225018/https://www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192-29938_30245-2606--,00.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Minnesota]]
| {{lang|fr|[[L'Étoile du Nord]]}}{{#tag:ref|The unofficial motto of the [[Minnesota Territory]] was {{lang|la|Quae sursum volo videre}}, I long to see what is beyond, chosen in 1849.<ref name=MN/>|group=N}}
|The star of the North
|[[French Language|French]]
|{{dts|1861}}
|align="center"|<ref name=MN>{{cite web|url=http://www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/Symbols.asp|title=Minnesota State Symbols|publisher=State of Minnesota|access-date=2009-03-02|archive-date=2012-02-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213111930/http://www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/symbols.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Mississippi]]
| {{lang|la|[[Virtute et armis]]}}
|By valor and arms
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1894|2|7}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ms.gov/symbols.jsp |title=State of Mississippi Symbols |publisher=State of Mississippi |access-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090429193034/http://www.ms.gov/symbols.jsp |archive-date=April 29, 2009 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Missouri]]
| {{lang|la|[[Salus populi suprema lex esto]]}}
|Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1822|1|11}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sos.mo.gov/symbols/symbols.asp?symbol=seal|title=The Great Seal of Missouri|publisher=State of Missouri|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2009-01-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090130130149/http://sos.mo.gov/symbols/symbols.asp?symbol=seal|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Montana]]
| {{lang|es|Oro y plata}}
|Gold and silver
|[[Spanish language|Spanish]]
|{{dts|1865|2|9}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sos.mt.gov/About_Office/State_Seal.asp |title=About the State Seal |publisher=State of Montana |access-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090205161902/http://sos.mt.gov/About_Office/State_Seal.asp |archive-date=2009-02-05 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Nebraska]]
|[[Equality before the law]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1867}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sos.ne.gov/symbols/seal.html|title=State Seal|publisher=State of Nebraska|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225006/http://www.sos.ne.gov/symbols/seal.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Nevada]]
|All For Our Country{{#tag:ref|The unofficial motto of the [[Nevada Territory]] was {{lang|la|Volens et potens}}, 'willing and able', which was on the territorial seal approved on November 29, 1861. This was changed to the current motto after statehood.<ref name=NV/>|group=N}}
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1866|2|24}}
|align="center"|<ref name=NV>{{cite web|url=http://www.nv.gov/new_kidshomework.htm|title=Nevada Information|publisher=State of Nevada|format=PDF|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090130152600/http://www.nv.gov/new_KidsHomework.htm <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2009-01-30}}</ref>
|-
|[[New Hampshire]]
|[[Live Free or Die]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1945}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nh.gov/nhinfo/emblem.html|title=State Emblem|work=New Hampshire Almanac|publisher=State of New Hampshire|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224936/https://www.nh.gov/almanac/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[New Jersey]]
|Liberty and prosperity
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1928|3|26}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.state.nj.us/state/home/seal.html|title=The Great Seal of the State of New Jersey |publisher=State of New Jersey|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115070028/http://www.state.nj.us/state/home/seal.html <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2009-01-15}}</ref>
|-
|[[New Mexico]]
| {{lang|la|[[Crescit eundo]]}}
|It grows as it goes
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1887}}{{#tag:ref|{{lang|la|Crescit eundo}} was added to the territorial seal in 1882. Ths change was officially adopted by the legislature in 1887.<ref name=NM/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=NM>{{cite web|url=http://www.sos.state.nm.us/sos-seal.html|title=Great Seal of New Mexico|publisher=State of New Mexico|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081129110322/http://www.sos.state.nm.us//sos-seal.html|archive-date=2008-11-29|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[New York (state)|New York]]
| {{lang|la|Excelsior}}
|Ever upward
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1778}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/emblems/flag.htm|title=New York State Flag and Great Seal of the State of New York|date=March 31, 2008|publisher=State of New York|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224902/http://www.nysl.nysed.gov/emblems/flag.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[North Carolina]]
|{{lang|la|[[Esse quam videri]]}}
|To be, rather than to seem
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1893}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://statelibrary.ncdcr.gov/NC/SYMBOLS/SYMBOLS.HTM#motto|title=The State Symbols|date=2009-01-22|work=State Library of North Carolina|publisher=State of North Carolina|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224927/https://www.ncpedia.org/symbols#motto|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|rowspan=2|[[North Dakota]]
|[[Liberty and union, now and forever, one and inseparable]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|January 3, 1863}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nd.gov/content.htm?parentCatID=75&id=State%20Motto|title=State Motto|publisher=State of North Dakota|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090211174012/http://www.nd.gov/content.htm?parentCatID=75&id=State%20Motto|archive-date=2009-02-11|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>Kingsbury, George.  History of Dakota Territory (1915). [https://www.archive.org/stream/historyofdakotaterr01king#page/268/mode/2up Retrieved from the Internet Archive] 12 May 2014.</ref>
|-
|{{lang|la|Serit ut alteri saeclo prosit}}
|One sows for the benefit of another age
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|March 11, 2011}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legis.nd.gov/assembly/62-2011/bill-index/bi1346.html|title=House Bill No. 1346|publisher=State of North Dakota|access-date=2013-02-27|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224224853/https://www.legis.nd.gov/assembly/62-2011/bill-index/bi1346.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Northern Mariana Islands]]
| {{n/a}}
| {{n/a}}
| {{n/a}}
| {{n/a}}
|align="center"|<ref name="Shearer"/>
|-
|[[Ohio]]
|[[With God, all things are possible]]{{#tag:ref|From 1866 to 1868, the motto {{lang|la|Imperium in Imperio}} (Latin for 'Empire within an Empire') appeared on the state seal.<ref name="OH"/>|group=N}}
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1959|10|1}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/gp5.06|title=5.06 State motto.|work=LAW Writer Ohio Laws and Rules|publisher=State of Ohio|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2012-03-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318213849/http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/gp5.06|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=OH>{{cite web|url=http://publications.ohiohistory.org/ohstemplate.cfm?action=detail&Page=0010392.html&StartPage=388&EndPage=394&volume=10|title=Great Seal of Ohio|work=Ohio History|publisher=Ohio Historical Society|access-date=2011-04-10}}</ref>
|-
|[[Oklahoma]]
|{{lang|la|[[Labor omnia vincit]]}}
|Labor conquers all things
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1893|3|10}}{{#tag:ref|{{lang|la|Labor omnia vincit}} was on the territorial seal of 1893.<ref name="OK"/>|group=N}} {{#tag:ref|It was specified as a feature of the seal in the 1907 State Constitution.<ref name="OK2"/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite encyclopedia|url=http://digital.library.okstate.edu/encyclopedia/entries/S/ST020.html|title=State Emblems|last=Everett|first=Diana|encyclopedia=Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture|publisher=Oklahoma Historical Society|access-date=2009-06-05|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090615154251/http://digital.library.okstate.edu/encyclopedia/entries/S/ST020.html|archive-date=2009-06-15}}</ref><ref name=OK>{{cite web|url=http://digital.library.okstate.edu/Chronicles/v035/v035p128.pdf|title=Grand Seal of the Territory of Oklahoma|work=Chronicles of Oklahoma|publisher=Oklahoma State University|access-date=2009-06-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520095946/http://digital.library.okstate.edu/Chronicles/v035/v035p128.pdf|archive-date=2013-05-20|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=OK2>{{cite web|url=http://digital.library.okstate.edu/Chronicles/v022/v022p458.pdf|title=History of Oklahoma Emblems|work=Chronicles of Oklahoma|publisher=Oklahoma State University|access-date=2009-06-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170918091424/http://digital.library.okstate.edu/Chronicles/v022/v022p458.pdf|archive-date=2017-09-18|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|[[Oregon]]
|{{lang|la|[[Alis volat propriis]]}}
|She flies with her own wings
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1854}}{{#tag:ref|The motto of Oregon was "The Union" from 1957 until 1987, when the original 1854 motto of {{lang|la|[[Alis volat propriis]]}} was restored. "The Union" is still present on the official [[Seal of Oregon|state seal]] and [[Flag of Oregon|flag]].<ref name=OR/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=OR>{{cite web|url=http://www.leg.state.or.us/history/motto.htm |title=State Motto Timeline |publisher=State of Oregon |access-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070810103500/http://www.leg.state.or.us/history/motto.htm |archive-date=2007-08-10 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Pennsylvania]]
|[[Virtue, liberty, and independence]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1875}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.phmc.state.pa.us/bah/pahist/symbols.asp?secid=31|title=Symbols|work=Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission|publisher=Commonwealth of Pennsylvania|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122180951/http://www.phmc.state.pa.us/bah/pahist/symbols.asp?secid=31 <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2009-01-22}}</ref>
|-
|[[Puerto Rico]]
|{{lang|la|Joannes Est Nomen Ejus}}
|[[John the Baptist|John]] is his name
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1511}}{{#tag:ref|The Spanish Crown gave Puerto Rico its coat of arms in 1511. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico officially adopted it on March 9, 1905.<ref name=PR/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=PR>{{cite web|url=http://www2.pr.gov/SobrePuertoRico/SimbolosNacionales/Pages/Escudo.aspx|title=Escudo de Puerto Rico|publisher=Government of Puerto Rico|language=es|access-date=2011-04-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110626200032/http://www2.pr.gov/SobrePuertoRico/SimbolosNacionales/Pages/Escudo.aspx|archive-date=2011-06-26|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.topuertorico.org/descrip.shtml|title=Description|date=March 16, 2009|publisher=Welcome to Puerto Rico|access-date=2009-04-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225019/http://www.topuertorico.org/descrip.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Rhode Island]]
|[[Seal of Rhode Island|Hope]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1664|5|4}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ri.gov/facts/factsfigures.php|title=State Symbols|publisher=State of Rhode Island|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225012/https://www.ri.gov/facts/factsfigures.php|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|rowspan=2|[[South Carolina]]
|{{lang|la|[[Dum spiro spero]]}}
|While I breathe, I hope
|[[Latin]]
|rowspan=2|{{dts|1777|5|22}}
|rowspan=2 align="center"|<ref name=SC>{{cite web|url=http://www.scstatehouse.gov/studentpage/coolstuff/seal.shtml|title=Seals, Flags, House & Senate Emblems|publisher=State of South Carolina|access-date=2009-04-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225039/https://www.scstatehouse.gov/studentpage/coolstuff/seal.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|{{lang|la|[[Animis opibusque parati]]}}
|Ready in soul and resource
|[[Latin]]
|-
|[[South Dakota]]
|Under God the people rule
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1885}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.state.sd.us/state/sdsym.htm |title=Signs and Symbols of South Dakota |publisher=State of South Dakota |access-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220004837/http://www.state.sd.us/state/sdsym.htm |archive-date=2008-02-20 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Tennessee]]
|Agriculture and Commerce
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1802|5|24}}{{#tag:ref|The words ''[[agriculture]]'' and ''[[commerce]]'' appeared on the first state seal of 1802. "Agriculture and Commerce" was made the official state motto in 1987.<ref name=TN/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=TN>{{cite web|url=http://www.state.tn.us/sos/bluebook/07-08/46-Symbols%20%26%20Honors.pdf|title=Tennessee Symbols And Honors|work=Tennessee Blue Book|publisher=State of Tennessee|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2017-12-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201041539/http://www.state.tn.us/sos/bluebook/07-08/46-Symbols|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Texas]]
|Friendship
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1930}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tsl.state.tx.us/ref/abouttx/symbols.html|title=Texas State Symbols|publisher=Texas State Library|access-date=2009-02-10|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225130/https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ref/abouttx/symbols.html%20|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Utah]]
|Industry
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1896|5|3}}{{#tag:ref|''Industry'' first appeared on the state seal of 1896. It was designated the official motto on March 4, 1959.<ref name="UT"/>|group=N}}
|align="center"|<ref name=UT>{{cite web|url=https://onlinelibrary.utah.gov/research/utah_symbols/motto.html|title=Utah State Motto and Emblem|publisher=State of Utah|access-date=2009-02-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200122150652/https://onlinelibrary.utah.gov/research/utah_symbols/motto.html|archive-date=2020-01-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utah.gov/capitolbuilding/greatseal.html|title=Great Seal of the State of Utah|publisher=State of Utah|access-date=2009-04-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090331121812/http://www.utah.gov/capitolbuilding/greatseal.html <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2009-03-31}}</ref>
|-
|rowspan=2|[[Vermont]]
|[[Freedom and Unity]]
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1779|2|20}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/01/011/00491|title=491. Coat of arms; crest; motto and badge|work=The Vermont Statutes Online|publisher=State of Vermont|access-date=2015-04-10|archive-date=2018-08-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180810235513/https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/01/011/00491|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|{{lang|la|[[Stella quarta decima fulgeat]]}}
|May the fourteenth star shine bright
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|2015|4|10}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://legislature.vermont.gov/assets/Documents/2016/Docs/BILLS/S-0002/S-0002%20As%20Passed%20by%20Both%20House%20and%20Senate%20Official.pdf|work=Vermont Legislature|title=S.2|access-date=2015-04-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150416012829/http://legislature.vermont.gov/assets/Documents/2016/Docs/BILLS/S-0002/S-0002%20As%20Passed%20by%20Both%20House%20and%20Senate%20Official.pdf|archive-date=2015-04-16|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|work=NECN|title=After Confusion and Controversy, Vermont Gets New Latin Motto|last=Thurston|first=Jack|date=10 April 2015|access-date=11 April 2015|url=http://www.necn.com/news/politics/After-Confusion-and-Controversy-Vermont-Gets-New-Latin-Motto-299379711.html|archive-date=15 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190415220301/https://www.necn.com/news/politics/After-Confusion-and-Controversy-Vermont-Gets-New-Latin-Motto-299379711.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| [[Virginia]]
| {{lang|la|[[Sic semper tyrannis]]}}
|Thus always to tyrants
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1776}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.virginia.org/site/features.asp?FeatureID=138 |title=State Symbols, Seals and Emblems |date=November 12, 2008 |publisher=Commonwealth of Virginia |access-date=2009-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115165637/https://www.virginia.org/site/features.asp?FeatureID=138 |archive-date=January 15, 2009 }}</ref>
|-
|[[U.S. Virgin Islands]]
|United in Pride and Hope
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1991|1|1}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legvi.org/LEGVI2007/history.htm#seal|title=Legislative Seal|publisher=Legislature of the Virgin Islands|access-date=2009-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081216024507/http://www.legvi.org/LEGVI2007/history.htm <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archive-date=2008-12-16}}</ref>
|-
|[[Washington (state)|Washington]]
| {{lang|chn|Al-ki}} or {{lang|chn|Alki}} (Unofficial){{#tag:ref|The motto of Washington is the only one to be fully unofficial. It is neither on the seal nor designated by the state legislature, but was present on the territorial seal.<ref name="WA"/>|group=N}}
|By and by
|[[Chinook Jargon]]
| {{n/a}}
|align="center"|<ref name=WA>{{cite web|title=Symbols of Washington State|publisher=Washington State Legislature|url=http://leg.wa.gov/Symbols/Pages/default.aspx|access-date=August 16, 2018|archive-date=September 24, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090924041842/http://leg.wa.gov/Symbols/Pages/default.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[West Virginia]]
| {{lang|la|[[Seal of West Virginia#Motto|Montani semper liberi]]}}
|Mountaineers are always free
|[[Latin]]
|{{dts|1863|9|26}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legis.state.wv.us/Educational/Kids_Page/5.html|title=State Seal of West Virginia|publisher=State of West Virginia|access-date=2009-02-14|archive-date=2018-12-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181224225027/http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Educational/Kids_Page/5.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|[[Wisconsin]]
|Forward
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1851}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legis.wisconsin.gov/lrb/bb/07bb/pdf/961-966.pdf |title=Wisconsin State Symbols |work=Wisconsin Blue Book |publisher=State of Wisconsin |access-date=2009-02-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227075257/http://www.legis.wisconsin.gov/lrb/bb/07bb/pdf/961-966.pdf |archive-date=2009-02-27 }}</ref>
|-
|[[Wyoming]]
|Equal Rights
| {{n/a}}
|English
|{{dts|1893}}
|align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://vote.wyoming.gov/SecretaryDesk/SD-GreatSeal.aspx|title=Great Seal|publisher=Wyoming Secretary of State's Office|access-date=2009-02-14|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081127134359/http://vote.wyoming.gov/SecretaryDesk/SD-GreatSeal.aspx|archive-date=2008-11-27}}</ref>
|}

==See also==
{{portal|United States}}
* [[List of national mottos]]
* [[List of U.S. state nicknames]]
* [[List of U.S. state tourism slogans]]
* [[United States national motto]]

==Notes==
{{reflist|group=N}}

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
*[http://www.netstate.com/states/tables/state_mottoes.htm Mottoes of the 50 States] from Netstate.com
*[http://www.statesymbolsusa.org/Lists/state_mottos.html State mottos] from State Symbols USA

{{state insignia}}
{{USStateLists}}
{{featured list}}

[[Category:State mottos of the United States|*]]
[[Category:Lists of mottos|United States]]
[[Category:Lists of United States state insignia|Mottos]]
[[Category:United States state insignia|Mottos]]