Esse quam videri facts for kids

Esse quam videri is a short Latin phrase. It means "To be, rather than to seem." Think of it like this: it's better to truly be a good person than to just look like one. This phrase has been used as a special saying, or motto, by many different groups over time. It is also the official state motto for North Carolina, a state in the United States. North Carolina chose this motto in 1893.

What "Esse Quam Videri" Means

The phrase Esse quam videri comes from the ancient Latin language. It teaches us an important lesson about honesty and character. It suggests that what you are on the inside, your true self, is more important than what you show to others.

Being True to Yourself

This motto encourages people to live with integrity. This means being honest and having strong moral principles. It's about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It's also about being genuine and not pretending to be someone you're not.

North Carolina's State Motto

North Carolina officially adopted Esse quam videri as its state motto in 1893. A state motto is a phrase that represents the values and beliefs of the state and its people. For North Carolina, this motto highlights the importance of character and truthfulness for its citizens.

History of the Motto

The idea for North Carolina to have a state motto came from a man named Walter Clark. He was a justice on the North Carolina Supreme Court. He believed that a motto would help represent the state's values. The phrase was chosen because it fit the spirit of the people and the history of North Carolina.

Images for kids

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  "Esse Quam Videri" plaque on monument to Revolutionary War officer Joseph Winston, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, Greensboro, North Carolina

See also

In Spanish: Esse quam videri para niños