What does the Latin phrase 'e pluribus unum' mean?

The Latin phrase 'e pluribus (Review) unum' accurately translates to "Out of many, one." This powerful motto was historically significant for the United States, serving as its unofficial national motto for many years. It eloquently captures the foundational principle of the American republic: the creation of a single, unified nation from thirteen distinct colonies.

The phrase was first proposed for the Great (Review) Seal of the United States in 1776 by a committee that included Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. Its inclusion on the Great Seal, which was officially approved in 1782, was intended to symbolize the coming together of individual states to form one cohesive federal system. This concept of unity from diversity has also been extended in modern interpretations to reflect America's identity as a nation built by immigrants from various backgrounds.

'E pluribus unum' has long been a prominent feature of American currency, appearing on U.S. coins since 1795 and mandated for all coins in 1873. It was also added to the one-dollar bill in 1935. Although "In God We Trust" became the official national motto in 1956, 'e pluribus unum' continues to endure as a profound expression of American identity, representing the enduring ideal of unity forged from a multitude of elements.