Seal of Arizona facts for kids
The Great Seal of the State of Arizona is an important symbol for the state. It acts like an official stamp, showing what Arizona is all about. This special seal is used on official state papers and documents. It helps make them legal and recognized. The seal tells a story about Arizona's land, its history, and the people who live there.
Quick facts for kids The Great Seal of the State of Arizona |
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| Versions | |
Original Territorial seal
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Second Territorial seal
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| Armiger | State of Arizona |
| Adopted | 1912 |
| Motto | Ditat Deus (God enriches) |
Contents
What the Arizona Seal Looks Like
The design of the Arizona State Seal is described in the state's own Constitution. It shows many important parts of Arizona's landscape and economy. Each part tells a bit about the state.
Mountains and the Rising Sun
In the background of the seal, you can see a range of mountains. The sun is shown rising from behind these tall peaks. This represents the beautiful natural scenery of Arizona. It also symbolizes a new beginning and hope.
Water and Farmland
On the right side of the mountains, there is a storage reservoir and a dam. Below them, you can see irrigated fields and orchards. These stretch out towards the front of the seal. This part highlights Arizona's important water resources and its farming.
Cattle and Mining
To the right of the fields, there are cattle grazing. This shows the state's ranching industry. On the left side, on a mountainside, there is a quartz mill. In front of it, a miner stands with a pick and shovel. This represents Arizona's rich history and present in mining.
Motto and State Name
Above all these images, you will find the state motto: "Ditat Deus." This Latin phrase means "God enriches." A circular band surrounds the entire design. On this band, it says "Great Seal of The State of Arizona." It also includes the year Arizona became a state, which was 1912.
Who Protects the Seal?
The Arizona Secretary of State is in charge of keeping the official seal safe. They can give permission for state government groups to use it. The seal is only for official state business. It cannot be used for things like selling products or for personal gain. If someone uses the seal without permission, it is against the law.
History of the Arizona Seal
The "official" Arizona State Seal was created by an artist named E.E. Motter. He worked for a newspaper in Phoenix. He designed the seal to represent the state's unique features. You can find more details about the seal's history on the Secretary of State's website.
See also
In Spanish: Gran sello del estado de Arizona para niños
