The national motto “In God We Trust” dates back to the Civil War—although Congress didn’t make it official until 1956. Each state’s nickname, however, has its own unique origin story.

Along with a state nickname, the 50 states are known by individual mottos that represent their founding or key features. The United States has a national motto of its own. "In God We Trust" is the ...

For centuries, the seal has portrayed an indigenous person on a shield. The crest above it, which is also the state’s ...

The Massachusetts Seal, Flag, and Motto Advisory Commission today launched an open call to artists, historians, educators, students, and members of the public to participate in the effort to redesign ...