I remember this one time, not too long ago, I was helping my nephew with his history project. He’d just learned about the Great Seal of the United States, and he pointed to the little ribbon clutched in the eagle’s beak on a dollar bill, all furrowed brow and genuine curiosity. “Auntie,” he asked, “who actually *made* ‘E pluribus unum’? And what does it even mean?” It got me thinking, because for all the times I’d seen it, on coins, on official documents, I’d never really paused to consider its true origins or the minds behind it. It’s such an iconic phrase, isn’t it? Something so intrinsically American, yet its beginnings are often shrouded in a bit of historical mist for most folks.
So, let’s cut right to the chase for anyone else wondering: E pluribus unum wasn’t really “founded” by a single person in the way one might found a company or a town. Instead, it was proposed by the very first Great Seal Committee in 1776, a powerhouse trio comprising Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. While they didn’t invent the phrase itself—it has much older classical roots—these three monumental figures were absolutely instrumental in selecting it and introducing it as a foundational motto for the nascent United States. They recognized its profound potential to articulate the ambitious vision of a unified nation emerging from a collection of diverse, independent states. It’s truly a testament to their collective wisdom and foresight, wouldn’t you say?
The Genesis of a National Identity: The First Great Seal Committee
Imagine, if you will, the sweltering Philadelphia summer of 1776. The Continental Congress had just declared independence, signing that momentous document. Suddenly, these thirteen disparate colonies, now states, needed to forge a coherent identity, something to symbolize their newfound unity and purpose. They weren’t just a collection of rebel territories anymore; they were aiming to be a legitimate nation on the world stage. It was a massive undertaking, and a critical step was to create a Great Seal – a visual emblem that would authenticate official documents and, crucially, encapsulate the very spirit of the new republic.
On July 4, 1776, the same day they adopted the Declaration of Independence, Congress appointed a committee to design this essential symbol. And what a committee it was! We’re talking about intellectual giants here: Benjamin Franklin, the venerable polymath and diplomat; John Adams, the fiery advocate for independence and future president; and Thomas Jefferson, the brilliant wordsmith behind the Declaration itself. These weren’t just politicians; they were philosophers, scholars, and visionaries, all tasked with distilling the essence of America into a single design.
Their task was anything but simple. Each member brought his own ideas and allegories, rooted in classical history, biblical narratives, and Enlightenment ideals. Franklin, ever the pragmatist and a bit of a revolutionary in his own right, reportedly envisioned a design featuring Moses parting the Red Sea, with Pharaoh drowning in the waters, symbolizing divine deliverance from tyranny. Jefferson, drawing on a similar biblical theme, proposed the Children of Israel being led through the wilderness by a pillar of cloud and fire, also representing divine guidance and liberation. Adams, with his penchant for classical virtue, suggested Hercules, depicted as he faced the choice between a life of ease and one of arduous virtue, symbolizing the monumental decisions and sacrifices required for the new nation’s survival.
Now, while these individual proposals were certainly grand and meaningful, they perhaps lacked the singular, unifying phrase that could bind the whole concept together. This is where the motto comes in. While the individual members were busy sketching out grand scenes, they also engaged a talented artist and consultant, Pierre Eugène du Simitière, a Swiss-born American artist living in Philadelphia. Du Simitière, well-versed in heraldry and classical iconography, played a significant role in advising the committee and synthesizing their diverse ideas. It’s widely believed that it was either Du Simitière who explicitly suggested *E pluribus unum* to the committee, or that the phrase was one of several classical mottos floating around in the intellectual circles of the time, and the committee collectively recognized its profound fit. Regardless of who uttered it first in that room, the committee ultimately recommended the phrase *E pluribus unum* as part of their initial, albeit ultimately rejected, design for the Great Seal.
The Ancient Whispers: Tracing E Pluribus Unum’s Classical Roots
To truly understand *E pluribus unum*, we have to journey further back in time, long before powdered wigs and quill pens. The beauty of this motto, and perhaps why it resonated so deeply with the Founding Fathers, is that it wasn’t some novel invention but a timeless adage, a maxim plucked from the wellspring of classical thought. It’s a bit like finding a perfectly polished river stone; its beauty is inherent, not manufactured.
One of the most commonly cited origins for the phrase, or at least a very close variation, can be found in the works of the Roman poet Virgil, specifically his short epic poem *Moretum*, sometimes attributed to him though its authorship is debated. In this poem, which describes a humble farmer making a rustic cheese and garlic spread, a line appears: “color est e pluribus unus,” meaning “color is one out of many.” Here, it refers to the blend of different ingredients (herbs, garlic, cheese) creating a singular, new flavor and color. It’s a simple culinary observation, yet it perfectly captures the essence of diverse elements merging into a harmonious whole. Imagine, if you will, the sheer poetry of that idea, applied not to a spread, but to a nation!
But Virgil wasn’t the only classical voice hinting at this idea. The concept of many things coming together to form a singular entity was a recurring theme in ancient philosophy and literature. For instance, the Roman orator Cicero, in his work *De Officiis* (On Duties), discusses how a commonwealth must be formed “out of many individuals united by agreement.” While he doesn’t use the exact phrase *E pluribus unum*, the underlying principle of unity from diversity is undeniably present. Horace, another revered Roman poet, also touched upon similar ideas of societal cohesion.
What’s truly fascinating is that by the 18th century, *E pluribus unum* wasn’t some obscure Latin phrase known only to a handful of scholars. It had, in fact, gained a modest currency in the English-speaking world. For example, it served as the motto for *The Gentleman’s Magazine*, a hugely popular British periodical published from 1731 to 1907. This magazine was widely read in the American colonies, and its masthead proudly displayed *E pluribus unum*. This suggests that the phrase, and its potent meaning, would have been familiar to educated Americans like Franklin, Adams, and Jefferson. It wasn’t just a random pick; it was a recognized symbol of a collection of distinct articles or ideas coalescing into a single, comprehensive publication. So, when the committee sought a motto for their nascent nation, *E pluribus unum* likely emerged not as a sudden flash of genius, but as a well-understood and deeply resonant phrase, ready to be repurposed for an even grander purpose.
The Winding Path to Official Adoption: Committees and Compromises
While the first committee, with Franklin, Adams, and Jefferson, brought *E pluribus unum* to the table, their full design for the Great Seal didn’t quite make the cut. Designing a national emblem is a weighty matter, and like all good governmental processes, it involved a bit of back and forth, and, yes, a few more committees. It’s truly a testament to the enduring power of the motto that it survived these subsequent deliberations and transformations.
The initial committee’s proposals, while grand, were deemed too complex or perhaps too overtly biblical for a seal meant to represent a diverse, secularizing nation. So, over the next six years, two more committees were appointed to tackle the challenge. The second committee, formed in March 1779, included James Lovell, John Scott (who declined to serve), and William Churchill Houston. They, too, brought in outside expertise, consulting with Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, artist, and designer who is often credited with designing the American flag. Hopkinson introduced many of the elements we recognize today, such as the thirteen red and white stripes and stars in a canton, and proposed a design featuring a shield with thirteen stripes. Crucially, he also retained *E pluribus unum* as part of his recommended design, showcasing its growing consensus as an appropriate motto.
Still, a definitive design remained elusive. The third and final committee was appointed in May 1782, consisting of Arthur Middleton, John Rutledge, and Elias Boudinot. They, in turn, passed the buck, so to speak, to Charles Thomson, the Secretary of the Continental Congress. Thomson, a meticulous scholar and a highly respected figure, took all the previous proposals, rejected elements, and retained others. He then brought in a young, talented lawyer and heraldry expert named William Barton to help refine the design. Barton contributed significantly, incorporating elements like the pyramid and the Eye of Providence, as well as the Roman numerals for 1776, and the mottos *Annuit Coeptis* and *Novus Ordo Seclorum* on the reverse side.
But what about our beloved *E pluribus unum*? Thomson, reviewing the decades of ideas and the various iterations, recognized the profound significance and simplicity of *E pluribus unum*. He retained it, placing it on a scroll clutched in the beak of the bald eagle on the obverse (front) of the Great Seal. On June 20, 1782, after six years of deliberation, proposals, and refinements, the Continental Congress finally adopted the design for the Great Seal of the United States. And there it was, officially enshrined: *E pluribus unum*, a motto that had transcended individual preferences and committee changes, testament to its inherent power and perfect suitability.
More Than Just Words: The Profound Meaning and Symbolism
So, we know who proposed it and how it came to be, but what truly makes *E pluribus unum* so incredibly powerful and enduring? At its core, it’s a simple Latin phrase: “Out of many, one.” But oh, the layers of meaning woven into those three little words! It’s truly a concise articulation of the American experiment, a sentiment that resonates as deeply today as it did when those thirteen colonies were first striving to become a unified nation.
Let’s break down its symbolism:
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Unity from Political Diversity:
This is perhaps the most immediate and obvious interpretation. The “many” refers to the thirteen individual states, each with its own unique history, culture, and interests, yet coming together to form a single, sovereign federal union. It’s a powerful acknowledgment that despite their distinct identities, their collective strength and future lay in their ability to unite under a common government. Imagine the sheer audacity of this idea in the late 18th century! States had fiercely guarded their independence, and the concept of a strong federal union was revolutionary. The motto served as both a description of their aspiration and a constant reminder of the necessity of that unity.
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Cohesion from a Diverse Populace:
Beyond the states, the “many” also speaks to the diverse peoples who inhabited—and continue to inhabit—this vast land. From the original Indigenous populations to waves of immigrants from every corner of the globe, America has always been a melting pot, a grand experiment in how people from different backgrounds, languages, religions, and traditions can forge a shared identity. *E pluribus unum* isn’t just about political entities; it’s about the human spirit of coming together, finding common ground, and building a collective future. It speaks to the idea that our differences, rather than being divisive, can be sources of strength when woven into the fabric of a shared national purpose.
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Strength in Numbers, Harmony in Discord:
The motto implies a kind of alchemical process: that the sum is greater than its individual parts. Just as individual notes form a symphony, or different colors blend to create a richer hue, the collective effort of many individuals and states creates a nation far more formidable and resilient than any single component could be on its own. It’s a message of cooperation, compromise, and the hard work required to maintain that delicate balance between individual freedom and collective responsibility. It’s truly an aspiration, a constant goal to strive for, knowing that true unity is a continuous endeavor, not a fixed state.
For me, *E pluribus unum* has always felt like the beating heart of the American creed. It’s not just a dusty old Latin phrase; it’s a living testament to what we are supposed to be. It’s etched on our coins, but it’s really etched on the very idea of America. It reminds us that our strength isn’t just in our individual liberties, but in our capacity to come together, to respect our differences, and to work towards a common good. It’s a challenging ideal, no doubt, but one that continues to define our national character, urging us to look beyond our immediate circles and see the broader tapestry of our shared nation.
Its Ubiquitous Presence in American Life
Even if you don’t know the exact meaning or origin, you’ve almost certainly encountered *E pluribus unum*. It’s one of those phrases that’s so woven into the fabric of American daily life that it almost becomes part of the background noise. But its constant presence is a deliberate and meaningful reminder of our national ideal.
The most common place people encounter it, without a doubt, is on our currency. From pennies to quarters, from dollar bills to the rarely seen two-dollar bill, *E pluribus unum* is proudly displayed. This isn’t just a design choice; it’s a daily, tangible reinforcement of the motto’s significance. Every time you handle a piece of American money, you’re holding a small, powerful symbol of national unity. It’s a really smart way, if you think about it, to embed such a crucial message directly into the hands of every citizen.
Beyond money, the motto appears on numerous official seals, monuments, and government buildings. The Great Seal itself, where *E pluribus unum* resides, is used to authenticate a vast array of documents, from presidential proclamations to treaties. Its presence on these official instruments lends an air of authority and underscores the principle of unity that underpins the nation’s governance. You might even spot it in older architectural details in federal buildings, quietly testifying to its enduring importance.
Distinguishing E Pluribus Unum from Other National Mottos
Sometimes, folks get *E pluribus unum* a little mixed up with other national phrases, and it’s understandable. America actually has a few significant mottos and phrases that appear on our seals and currency, each with its own history and meaning. It’s helpful to clarify where *E pluribus unum* stands in this pantheon of national expressions.
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“In God We Trust”: The Official National Motto
Perhaps the most common confusion arises with “In God We Trust.” While *E pluribus unum* has been around since the nation’s inception, “In God We Trust” actually became the official national motto of the United States much, much later, in 1956, during the Cold War. Its adoption was largely a response to the perceived threat of communism and an emphasis on America’s spiritual foundations. It first appeared on U.S. coins in 1864, during the Civil War, and on paper currency in 1957. So, while “In God We Trust” holds the legal title of “national motto,” *E pluribus unum* has a much longer and more foundational history, representing a civic, rather than solely religious, principle.
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“Annuit Coeptis”: He Favors Our Undertakings
This Latin phrase appears on the reverse side of the Great Seal, above the Eye of Providence and the uncompleted pyramid. It means “He [God] favors our undertakings” or “He has approved our endeavors.” This motto, also chosen by Charles Thomson, reflects a sense of divine providence guiding the American experiment. It speaks to the belief that the nation’s founding was blessed and supported by a higher power.
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“Novus Ordo Seclorum”: A New Order of the Ages
Also found on the reverse side of the Great Seal, below the pyramid, “Novus Ordo Seclorum” translates to “New Order of the Ages.” This phrase points to the revolutionary nature of the American republic. It signifies that the United States was establishing a new epoch, a new political system distinct from the monarchical and imperial powers of the old world. It’s a statement of groundbreaking innovation and a hopeful vision for the future of self-governance.
While all these mottos are significant, *E pluribus unum* stands apart for its original purpose: to literally encapsulate the very act of forming a united nation from diverse entities. It’s less about divine favor or a new world order, and more about the fundamental, ongoing process of unification that defines the American identity.
Historical Context and the Enduring Challenge of Unity
The beauty of *E pluribus unum* is that it’s not just a description of what America *was* at its founding, but a constant, aspirational ideal for what it *should be*. Throughout our nation’s history, this motto has been tested, stretched, and, at times, seemingly pushed to its breaking point. Yet, it has always endured as a reminder of our fundamental commitment to unity.
Think about the early days of the republic. The states squabbled constantly over trade, land, and power. The Articles of Confederation, America’s first governing document, struggled precisely because it lacked the “unum,” the strong central authority to truly bind the “pluribus” together. The Constitution, a monumental act of compromise and political engineering, was an attempt to better realize the promise of *E pluribus unum* by creating a more perfect union. It wasn’t easy then, and it’s certainly not easy now.
Of course, the most profound challenge to this motto came with the Civil War. That devastating conflict was, at its heart, a brutal test of whether a nation “conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal” could long endure as “one nation.” The very idea of the “unum” was fractured, and it took immense sacrifice and a profound redefinition of national purpose to piece it back together. Even after the war, the struggle for true unity continued, particularly for African Americans and other marginalized groups fighting for their rightful place as full and equal members of that “one.”
And let’s be honest, the challenges continue today. In our highly diverse, often polarized society, the call of *E pluribus unum* rings as loudly as ever. We face ongoing debates about identity, belonging, and the very definition of what it means to be American. Economic disparities, social injustices, political divisions – these are all strains on the fabric of our unity. The motto doesn’t promise a perfect, seamless blend, but rather a dynamic process of many striving to be one, a continuous effort to find common ground and shared purpose amidst our differences.
It’s not just a phrase on a coin; it’s a moral compass, a guiding principle that reminds us that despite our disagreements and our distinct backgrounds, there is a fundamental need for cohesion, a shared destiny that binds us all together as Americans. It’s a perpetual challenge, sure, but also a perpetual source of strength.
The Enduring Legacy: Why This Phrase Above All Others?
Given the many mottos, symbols, and grand statements that could have been chosen, why has *E pluribus unum* stood the test of time? Why did those initial Founding Fathers, and then subsequent committees, cling so firmly to it? I think it boils down to its sheer elegance and its profound, timeless applicability.
It’s not overtly religious, though it doesn’t preclude faith. It’s not geographically specific, so it could grow with the nation. It’s not tied to a single historical event, allowing it to adapt through centuries of change. Instead, it captures a universal truth: that strength, resilience, and true identity often emerge from the harmonious blending of diverse elements. It speaks to the very human endeavor of community-building, of finding commonality amidst difference.
The Founding Fathers, particularly those brilliant minds on the first committee, were deeply aware of the fragility of their new republic. They understood that the greatest threat to their experiment was disunion. *E pluribus unum* was a declaration of intent, a prayer, and a guiding principle all rolled into one. It affirmed that despite the individual sovereignty and varied interests of the states, they were now irrevocably bound together. They were building something new, something unprecedented, and it required a commitment to collective identity.
This motto continues to serve as a powerful reminder of our ongoing national project. It challenges us to look beyond our immediate affiliations and recognize our shared American identity. It’s a constant call to civic engagement, to compromise, and to the hard work of building and maintaining a cohesive society. It’s a truly foundational statement, one that encapsulates the unique genius of the American experiment: unity not through uniformity, but through the deliberate, often difficult, act of bringing many distinct parts together to form a greater, more perfect whole.
Frequently Asked Questions About E Pluribus Unum
Is E pluribus unum still the official motto of the United States?
No, surprisingly, it is not the *official* national motto, although it is undeniably the most historically significant and widely recognized de facto motto. The official motto of the United States, as designated by an Act of Congress in 1956, is “In God We Trust.”
However, despite this official designation, *E pluribus unum* remains incredibly prominent. It’s enshrined on the Great Seal of the United States, which is used to authenticate a vast array of government documents, and it appears on nearly all U.S. currency. Its historical legacy and continuous presence in American public life mean it still carries immense weight and is considered by many to be the quintessential American motto, embodying the very spirit of national unity and diversity from the nation’s inception.
When did E pluribus unum first appear on U.S. coins?
*E pluribus unum* made its initial appearance on United States coinage very early in the nation’s history. It was first seen on some of the earliest copper coins, specifically the half cent and cent, minted in 1795. This was just a few years after the U.S. Mint was established in 1792.
Over the subsequent decades, its presence expanded to various denominations, and by the mid-19th century, it was quite common. Its consistent placement on currency solidified its status as an ever-present national identifier, ensuring that the message of “out of many, one” was literally in the hands of the American people.
Why was Latin chosen for the motto instead of English?
The choice of Latin for *E pluribus unum* was not accidental; it was a deliberate and deeply symbolic decision rooted in the intellectual climate of the 18th century. During the Enlightenment era, Latin was considered the universal language of scholars, intellectuals, and diplomacy across Europe and the newly formed United States.
By selecting a Latin motto, the Founding Fathers were making several statements: they were aligning the new republic with the esteemed traditions of classical antiquity (Rome being a powerful symbol of republican virtue and empire), demonstrating the intellectual sophistication of their new nation, and adopting a language that transcended the specific dialects and regionalisms within the colonies. It gave the motto an air of timelessness, gravitas, and universality, implying that the principles it represented were fundamental and enduring, rather than merely contemporary.
What does ‘pluribus’ specifically refer to in the context of the motto?
The term ‘pluribus’ in *E pluribus unum* is beautifully multifaceted, intentionally broad, and encompasses several key aspects of the American identity:
- The States: Primarily, and most literally, ‘pluribus’ refers to the thirteen original colonies, which, upon declaring independence, became individual states. The motto signified their coming together from distinct political entities to form a unified federal nation. As new states joined the union, this interpretation naturally expanded to include all fifty states.
- The People: Beyond political subdivisions, ‘pluribus’ also refers to the diverse population that makes up the nation. This includes people from varied ethnic, cultural, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds. America has always been a nation of immigrants, and the motto speaks to the idea that these distinct individual identities and heritages can coalesce into a shared national identity and purpose.
- Ideas and Ideals: On a more abstract level, ‘pluribus’ can represent the multitude of ideas, perspectives, and even political factions that exist within a democratic society. The challenge, and the genius, of the American system is to harness these diverse viewpoints and, through dialogue, debate, and compromise, forge a unified national will and direction. It underscores the messy but vital process of democratic governance where many voices contribute to a single, national decision.
In essence, ‘pluribus’ celebrates the rich tapestry of differences—be they political, demographic, or intellectual—that constitute the American experience, all converging into a singular, cohesive national identity.
Who coined the phrase E pluribus unum before the US used it?
While the Founding Fathers were instrumental in adopting *E pluribus unum* for the United States, they did not originate the phrase itself. Its origins trace back to classical antiquity and its use was not exclusive to the Great Seal.
As discussed, a very similar phrase, “color est e pluribus unus,” can be found in the Roman poem *Moretum*, often attributed to Virgil, which describes various ingredients blending into one. More concretely, the phrase *E pluribus unum* was famously used as the motto for *The Gentleman’s Magazine*, a popular British monthly periodical published in London from 1731. This magazine was widely distributed in the American colonies, meaning the phrase and its connotation of many articles (or elements) forming one publication would have been familiar to educated Americans like Franklin, Adams, and Jefferson. So, while no single ancient individual “coined” it in the context of it becoming a national motto, its prior existence in classical literature and popular periodicals gave it a pre-existing resonance that made it a perfect fit for the nascent American nation.
How does E pluribus unum reflect American diversity today?
In contemporary America, *E pluribus unum* serves as a powerful and ever-relevant reflection of our nation’s vast and evolving diversity. Far from being a relic of the past, it remains a guiding principle for understanding how a nation can embrace and celebrate its differences while still fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose.
Today’s ‘pluribus’ is more expansive than ever, encompassing a broader range of ethnicities, cultures, languages, religions, sexual orientations, and socio-economic backgrounds. The motto reminds us that the American identity is not monolithic but a rich mosaic formed from countless individual stories and traditions. It challenges us to see our diversity not as a weakness or a source of division, but as a fundamental strength that enriches our society, fuels innovation, and broadens our collective understanding of the world. It’s an ongoing call to find common ground and build unity amidst our vibrant, sometimes challenging, array of differences, reminding us that the work of creating “one” from “many” is a continuous, dynamic process.
