Great Seal facts for kids

A Great Seal is like a special stamp or symbol used by a country or government. It's super important because it shows that official documents, like laws or treaties, are real and approved. Think of it as the government's official signature! These seals have been used for hundreds of years to make sure important papers are truly official.

What is a Great Seal?

A Great Seal is a unique design that represents a country, state, or ruler. It is pressed onto wax, paper, or other materials to mark official documents. This mark proves that the document is authentic and has been approved by the highest authority. For example, when a new law is signed, the Great Seal might be added to it. This shows everyone that the law is real and official.

Why are Seals Important?

Seals have been used for a very long time, even in ancient civilizations. In the past, many people couldn't read or write. A seal was a simple way to show who a document came from and that it was genuine. Today, seals are still used for important government papers, like treaties with other countries or official declarations. They add a layer of security and importance to these documents. Each Great Seal is carefully designed with symbols that represent the history, values, and goals of the place it belongs to.

Famous Great Seals

Many countries and states have their own unique Great Seals. Each one tells a story through its symbols and images.

The Great Seal of the United States

The Great Seal of the United States is a very famous example. It was first adopted in 1782. One side of the seal shows a bald eagle, which is the national bird. The eagle holds an olive branch, symbolizing peace, and arrows, representing war. Above the eagle's head are 13 stars, standing for the original 13 states. The other side of the seal shows an unfinished pyramid with an eye above it. This symbolizes strength and the idea that the nation is always growing. The Great Seal of the United States is used on important documents like treaties and presidential proclamations.

The Great Seal of France

The Great Seal of France has a rich history, changing with different governments over the centuries. The current design was adopted in 1848. It features a goddess of Liberty, holding a fasces (a bundle of rods symbolizing strength in unity) and a rudder with a rooster (a symbol of France). This seal is used to authenticate the most important laws and official acts of the French government. It shows the long history of France and its commitment to liberty.

The Great Seal of Vermont

The Great Seal of Vermont is another interesting example. It was designed in 1778. The seal shows a pine tree rising from a forest, with a cow and sheaves of grain nearby. This design represents the state's natural beauty, agriculture, and independence. The motto "Vermont: Freedom and Unity" is also part of the seal. It is used on official documents of the state of Vermont, just like national seals are used for countries.

Images for kids

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  Great Seal of Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor

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  The Great Seal of France attached to the French Constitution of 1958.