Discover the North Carolina state motto and its rich history

It may seem grandiose to some, but almost as many states use Latin mottos as English ones. However, they can sometimes be a little confusing to those without a specific education.

So, what does the North Carolina state motto, "Esse Quam Videri," even mean literally and figuratively? Why should we even care about a motto made over 100 years ago?

Below, we delve into this motto's origins and rich history, tracing its significance from before its adoption to the present day. Discover the North Carolina symbolism in this point of pride and learn about its lasting impact that continues to offer solace to many.

Origins of the North Carolina state motto

Each of the 50 states in the United States has a unique motto that expresses a core identity its people have wished to express at one point in their history. Between 1551 and 2015, many U.S. states and territories have chosen to pass legislation confirming the official legitimacy of such a phrase. For others, using a motto is a tradition rather than an official act, with its legitimacy coming from its use by subsequent governments.

The N.C. state motto origins sit firmly in legislation passed by the General Assembly in 1893 when they adopted the following as the state's motto:

"Esse Quam Videri"

The year was a period of increased state pride following the Civil War. The government wanted to standardize the state's symbols and give people something they could consider a source of identity.

Following the legislation, people used many of the state's symbols, including its motto, in various ways. Over time, the state has also incorporated the phrase into many examples of North Carolinian identity, including its great seal and coat of arms.

Influences and meanings of the motto

The history of the N.C. motto is rooted in essays by Roman poet Cicero, specifically "On Friendship." In this context, the phrase aims to present a sense of purpose, which many North Carolinians worried would start to wane after the Civil War. It also promotes authenticity and the belief that one should display true virtue rather than aim to appear as though one does.

The meaning of the N.C. motto reflects a broad humanistic ideal. It drives people to take actions of true character rather than try to become known for self-serving displays or words alone.

How NC embodies the values and ideals of the motto

North Carolinians often choose to take action that shows the true nature of their hearts, creating historical precedents and paragons of virtue that others can emulate. Some examples of this include:

The Greensboro Sit-In of 1960: At this point in history, the lunch counter in the college remained segregated, and African Americans could not receive service when they sat in specific areas. When these young students refused to move after not receiving service due to their skin color, their example began to spread.

Soon, the college and many other establishments nationwide began to change their segregationist policies. The actions of these four men were only one such example of civil disobedience across America that led to major changes, but their was as valid as any other.

Military service and veteran support: The region holds several American military bases, including Fort Liberty and Camp Lejeune. Those who serve in these regions put their lives on the line for their state and country, and the state returns this service with the support veterans need.

Such an honest and sincere exchange of service for support demonstrates how the region commits to the ideals of duty and sacrifice. These honorable reflections of life show how North Carolina residents genuinely live up to its motto.

Impact and legacy of the state motto

The phrase "Esse Quam Videri" has appeared in many places over the years, impacting art such as literature and media in almost uncountable ways. Creative individuals have used the words as the basis of poems, songs, and many other things, explicitly referring to the authenticity they wish to see in the state's people. These efforts to preserve and propagate the motto mean it is unlikely to go anywhere soon.

The state reinforces the motto's power through repetition in other statewide symbols, such as its coat of arms and sports teams. It also appears in locations such as the Joseph Winston Monument and the Guilford Courthouse, reinforcing the intent and meaning behind the phrase. It even infuses schoolrooms with the state's virtuous ideals.

As it now appears in state documents, anyone who receives such an item will have the motto somewhere in their home. It is also apparent in the name of humanitarian art projects that aim to celebrate diversity in North Carolina and the wider United States.

A less serious form in which the motto appears is as a parody by famous satirist Stephen Colbert. He uses the phrase "Videri Quam Esse" on a fireplace in front of which he performs many interviews, turning the original motto's meaning on its head.

In doing this, Colbert suggests that the people he is interviewing do not believe in their words and that their actions are instead performative. The parody may also refer to the comedy host himself, being a self-referential comment about the nature of his satire.

The motto's modern relevance

In a world where the truth of basic information is in question, it is more relevant than ever that we consider the importance of this piece of North Carolina heritage. It stands as a bulwark against a drive toward misinformation and performative virtue and serves as a guiding principle we should hold dear.

While the motto may be romantic, perhaps we are in an era where ideals are more relevant than untrusted facts.

Understand and celebrate the North Carolina state motto

With a greater understanding of the North Carolina state motto, "Esse Quam Videri," you now have a deeper insight into the state's historical values. The motto influenced people's identities long ago and continues to do so today, infusing everything from education to daily life across the region. It's something to be proud of.