Test Your Knowledge: Do You Know Your State's Motto?

miroslav_1 / istockphoto
miroslav_1 / istockphoto

'God Bless America'

Hey there, quiz enthusiasts! Ever thought about how each state in this great nation of ours has its own unique motto? That's right, from sea to shining sea, each state has a saying that encapsulates its spirit, history, and values. Some of these mottos have roots dating back centuries and originate from various languages like Latin, Greek, and even Native American dialects. Don't worry, we've translated 'em all into English for you. Ready to test your knowledge and take a trip down America's memory lane? Let's find out how many states you can recognize based on their iconic mottos!

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 1

  

DenisTangneyJr
DenisTangneyJr

Answer: New Hampshire

New Hampshire's motto "Live Free or Die" is a symbol of the state's strong belief in individual liberty and limited government. Known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, New Hampshire has a spirit as robust as its motto.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 2

  

Chilkoot
Chilkoot

Answer: Alaska

Adopted in 1967, Alaska's motto "North to the Future" captures the pioneering spirit and potential that characterizes this massive state. Beyond the frozen tundra, you'll find a land rich in natural resources and stunning landscapes

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 3

  

James Deitsch
James Deitsch

Answer: Alabama

Alabama's motto, selected in 1923, reflects its history of standing up for its beliefs. The state is rich in both natural beauty like the Gulf Coast and history, such as its role in the Civil Rights Movement.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 4

  

mlauffen
mlauffen

Answer: California

California's motto "Eureka" translates to "I have found it," which encapsulates the Gold Rush era that helped shape the state. Today, California remains a place of discovery, from tech innovation in Silicon Valley to the entertainment industry in Hollywood.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 5

  

benkrut / iStock
benkrut / iStock

Answer: Indiana

Adopted officially in 1937, the motto reflects Indiana's central location and its history as a hub for commerce and travel. From the Indianapolis 500 to beautiful limestone quarries, Indiana has more than cornfields to offer.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 6

  

Pete G
Pete G

Answer: Florida

Adopted in 1868, this motto reflects Florida's faith-based community values. Known for its vibrant cities like Miami and Orlando, Florida also boasts a variety of natural attractions like the Everglades.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 7

  

wanderluster
wanderluster

Answer: Arizona

Coming from the Latin "Ditat Deus" this motto signifies the spiritual and material riches of the state. The state is a mix of breathtakingly beautiful desert landscapes and bustling cities like Phoenix.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 8

  

danthi66 / iStock
danthi66 / iStock

Answer: Arkansas

Adopted in 1907, this motto centers on the idea of democracy. Arkansas is renowned for its diverse geography ranging from mountainous regions to dense forests.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 9

  

Wilmington is the largest city in the state of Delaware, United States and is located at the confluence of the Christina River and Brandywine Creek
DenisTangneyJr/istockphoto

Answer: Wyoming

Since its territorial days, Wyoming has advocated for equality. It was the first state to grant women the right to vote.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 10

  

FierceAbin
FierceAbin

Answer: Wisconsin

Wisconsin, known for its dairy industry, has been marching "Forward" since 1851. The state is also famous for its lakes and forests.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 11

  

hkim39 // istockphoto
hkim39 // istockphoto

Answer: West Virginia

"Montani Semper Liberi" is the Latin motto of West Virginia, paying homage to the state's rugged terrain and the independent spirit of its people.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 12

  

4nadia
4nadia

Answer: Washington

Coming from the Native American phrase "Al-ki," this motto encapsulates Washington's forward-thinking spirit. The state is a hub for technology and aerospace industries.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 13

  

WilliamSherman
WilliamSherman

Answer: Virginia

Dating back to 1776, Virginia's motto reflects its stance against tyranny. The state is known for its historical landmarks like Jamestown and Williamsburg.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 14

  

DenisTangneyJr
DenisTangneyJr

Answer: Vermont

This motto balances individual liberties with collective responsibility. Vermont is famous for its autumn foliage and maple syrup.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No.15

  

johnnya123
johnnya123

Answer: Utah

Adopted when Utah became a state in 1896, the motto speaks to its hard-working culture. The state is known for its beautiful national parks like Zion and Arches.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No.16

  

brucemaloneatx / iStock
brucemaloneatx / iStock

Answer: Texas

Texas' motto reflects its welcoming and communal spirit. Known for its large size and diverse landscapes, Texas is a state that's as varied as it is large.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No.17

  

NathanMerrill
NathanMerrill

Answer: Tennessee

Tennessee, known for its rich musical history, adopted this motto in 1802 to represent its economic foundations.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No.18

  

istockphoto
istockphoto

Answer: South Dakota

Since 1885, this motto has reflected South Dakota's values of faith and democracy. The state is famous for the iconic Mount Rushmore.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 19

  

SeanPavonePhoto
SeanPavonePhoto

Answer: South Carolina

This Latin motto, Dum spiro spero,"official since 1777, encapsulates South Carolina's optimistic spirit. The state is known for its subtropical beaches and historic Charleston.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 20

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: Rhode Island

This simple yet profound motto has been Rhode Island's since 1664. The state, the smallest in the U.S., is known for its coastal towns and maritime activities.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 21

  

DC_Colombia / iStock
DC_Colombia / iStock

Answer: Oregon

Adopted in 1854, this motto promotes self-sufficiency. Known for its natural beauty, Oregon is home to Crater Lake National Park and the end point of the historic Oregon Trail.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 22

  

Unsplash
Unsplash

Answer: North Dakota

This 1863 motto reflects North Dakota's dedication to unity and freedom. Known for its rich Native American history, the state is also a leader in agriculture.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 23

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: Pennsylvania

Established in 1875, Pennsylvania's motto reflects its foundational values. It's famous for Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 24

  

Sean Pavone // istockphoto
Sean Pavone // istockphoto

Answer: Oklahoma

"Labor omnia vincit." This 1893 Latin motto emphasizes the power of hard work. Oklahoma is known for its cowboy culture and oil production.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 25

  

David Butler
David Butler

Answer: Montana

Reflecting its mining history, Montana's motto from 1865 nods to its abundant natural resources. The state is also renowned for its stunning landscapes, including Glacier National Park.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 26

  

dypics
dypics

Answer: Ohio

Established in 1959, this motto showcases Ohio's faith-driven culture. The state is known for its industrial cities and contributions to aviation.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 27

  

" Darwin Brandis"
" Darwin Brandis"

Answer: North Carolina

Established in 1893, the Latin motto "Esse quam videri"  underlines North Carolina's emphasis on authenticity. The state is known for its diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 28

  

marekuliasz
marekuliasz

Answer: Nebraska

Adopted in 1867, this motto champions fairness and equal treatment. The state is known for its agriculture, particularly corn.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 29

  

Michael Pham
Michael Pham

Answer: Kansas

Adopted in 1861, the same year Kansas joined the Union, this motto exemplifies the state's resilient spirit. Known for its farmland, Kansas is a key part of America's breadbasket.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 30

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: New York

Adopted in 1778, this Latin motto which means "Ever upward' reflects the ambition that built the Empire State. New York is known for its significant cultural and financial impact globally.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 31

  

Depositphotos.com
Depositphotos.com

Answer: Colorado

Besides the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. Its Latin motto "Nil sine numine"  was adopted in 1861.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 32

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: New Mexico

New Mexico, known for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant arts scene, adopted the Latin motto "Crescit eundo" in 1887 to signify growth and progress.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 33

  

JoeChristensen
JoeChristensen

Answer: Iowa

The motto perfectly captures Iowa's spirit and was adopted in 1847. Iowa is primarily known for its agriculture but also has a strong community and family focus.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 34

  

Thomas Kelley
Thomas Kelley

Answer: Kentucky

This motto, which dates back to 1942, captures the essence of unity. Kentucky is famous for the Kentucky Derby, a longstanding horse racing tradition.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 35

  

AlizadaStudios
AlizadaStudios

Answer: Nevada

Nevada, famous for its entertainment hub, Las Vegas, took on this motto in 1866. It reflects the state's collective spirit and patriotism.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 36

  

Ultima_Gaina / istockphoto
Ultima_Gaina / istockphoto

Answer: New Jersey

This motto signifies New Jersey's commitment to freedom and growth. The state is famous for its diverse culture and shorelines.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 37

  

haveseen
haveseen

Answer: Michigan

Famous for its Great Lakes and auto industry, Michigan adopted the Latin motto "Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam circumspice," in 1835. It encourages one to appreciate the state's natural beauty.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 38

  

Cloud Gate in Chicago, Illinois
Sean Pavone/istockphoto

Answer: Illinois

Home to Chicago, one of the biggest cities in the U.S., Illinois adopted its motto in 1819 to stress the balance between state and national allegiance.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 39

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: Louisiana

Famous for its vibrant culture and Mardi Gras celebrations, Louisiana adopted this motto in 1902 to signify its core values.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 40

  

James_Lane
James_Lane

Answer: Maryland

Maryland, home to the U.S. Naval Academy, has had this Italian motto since 1874. It highlights the balance of action and eloquence.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 41

  

Art Wager
Art Wager

Answer: Hawaii

This native Hawaiian phrase was made official in 1843, the year Hawaii became a state. Famous for its stunning beaches and unique culture, Hawaii is a tropical paradise.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 42

  

istockphoto
istockphoto

Answer: Maine

Known for its rugged coastline and maritime history, Maine adopted its Latin motto in 1820. The state is also famous for its lobster.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 43

  

Rolf_52
Rolf_52

Answer: Massachusetts

"Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem." Reads the Latin motto from 1775 reflecting Massachusetts' role in the fight for American independence. The state is rich in both history and higher education institutions.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 44

  

shanecotee
shanecotee

Answer: Idaho

Idaho, primarily known for its potato farming, adopted this motto in 1890. The state is rich in natural beauty with places like Sun Valley and Coeur d'Alene.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 45

  

Dover, Delaware, USA - July 20, 2015: Exterior of the Delaware Legislative Hall in Dover, Delaware
gnagel / iStock

Answer: Delaware

Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Its motto, officially adopted in 1847, mirrors its historical significance.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 46

  

SeanPavonePhoto
SeanPavonePhoto

Answer: Georgia

Georgia's motto reflects its balanced approach to governance. The state is known for its peaches and its largest city, Atlanta.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 47

  

Scruggelgreen
Scruggelgreen

Answer: Minnesota

"L'Étoile du Nord" is the French motto from 1861 that reflects the state's northern location and its French heritage. Minnesota is also known for its lakes and outdoor activities.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 48

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: Mississippi

A hub of the Civil Rights Movement, Mississippi has had this Latin motto since 1894. The state is famous for its music heritage, particularly the blues.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 49

  

DepositPhotos.com
DepositPhotos.com

Answer: Missouri

This motto was adopted in 1822 and encapsulates Missouri's community-centered approach. The state is known for its diverse geography, from the Ozarks to its rivers.

MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX
MediaFeed/ iStock/ STILLFX

State No. 50

  

DenisTangneyJr
DenisTangneyJr

Answer: Connecticut

As one of the 13 original colonies, Connecticut has a rich history. Its motto pays homage to the sustaining power of its Creator and was adopted in 1662.

This story was produced and syndicated by MediaFeed.

" bernardbodo"
" bernardbodo"

More from MediaFeed

How Many States Can You Name Based on Just One Hint?

Advertisement