Delaware Flag 
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| Delaware State Motto |  |
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The Delaware State Motto
The Delaware motto is: "Liberty and independence" The Meaning of the Delaware State Motto
The meaning of the Delaware Motto reflects the historical aspirations and concepts of freedom, justice and independence. The motto relates the history of the War of Independence (1775–1783). The motto was added to the seal in 1847 and was suggested by the Society of the Cincinnati, the oldest patriotic organization of American Revolutionary War officers which was originally formed in 1783. The American citizens who live in, or who come from Delaware, are referred to as Delawareans. | "Liberty and independence" |
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The Origin and Meaning of the Delaware Nicknames
The history, origin and meaning of each of the state's nicknames are as follows: First State
The origin of the Official Nickname of the First State is self explanatory, was the first state to ratify the United States Constitution on December 7, 1787. This important date is also shown on the flag of Delaware. Diamond State
The Diamond shape is reflected in the center of the flag of Delaware and frames the state's Coat of Arms. The author and poet John Lofland (1798-1849), known as the "Milford Bard" of Milford, Delaware wrote "Delaware is like a diamond, diminutive, but having within it inherent value." Thomas Jefferson was accredited with describing Delaware as a "jewel" among states due to its strategic location on the Eastern Seaboard, the Atlantic coast. Land of Tax-Free Shopping
The Land of Tax-Free Shopping is a much appreciated name as there is no sales tax on purchases made within the State of Delaware! The district of Sussex County, Delaware is well known for its tax-free shopping. Small Wonder
The Small Wonder and "Uncle Sam's Pocket Handkerchief" is a reference to the small size of Delaware. The Blue Hen State
The Blue Hen reference is in relation to early, highly popular sport of cockfighting. The fighting prowess of these brave hens were likened to Delaware soldiers. Regiments from Kent County were called "Blue Hen's Chickens". |
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The Constitution of Delaware
The constitution of Delaware establishes the basic rights of Delaware's citizens and echoes the words and sentiments of the motto. The preamble (opening) of the constitution is as follows: "Through Divine goodness, all men have by nature the rights of worshiping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences, of enjoying and defending life and liberty, of acquiring and protecting reputation and property, and in general of obtaining objects suitable to their condition, without injury by one to another; and as these rights are essential to their welfare, for due exercise thereof, power is inherent in them; and therefore all just authority in the institutions of political society is derived from the people, and established with their consent, to advance their happiness; and they may for this end, as circumstances require, from time to time, alter their Constitution of government. "
Preamble of the Constitution of Delaware | |
Delaware State Motto and Nickname for Kids
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