* "E Pluribus Unum": This translates to "Out of many, one." It appears on the Great Seal of the United States and symbolizes the union of the thirteen original colonies. It was adopted in 1782 and has been on US currency ever since.
* "Annuit Coeptis": Meaning "He (God) approves our undertakings," this appears above the pyramid on the Great Seal. It reflects the belief that God favors the American cause.
* "Novus Ordo Seclorum": This translates to "A new order of the ages" and appears on the base of the pyramid. It signifies the creation of a new era, a new government, and a new way of life with the founding of the United States.
* "In God We Trust": While not Latin, this phrase was added to US currency during the Civil War. It was officially adopted as the national motto in 1956 and reflects the religious beliefs of many Americans.
These Latin phrases, along with the imagery on US currency, serve as a reminder of the country's history, ideals, and aspirations. They were considered appropriate for a new nation that was striving to establish its own identity, distinct from its European origins.
While the use of Latin might seem archaic today, it was a common language in government, education, and scholarship during the founding of the United States. It served as a way to connect the new nation with the intellectual and cultural heritage of the ancient world and communicate a sense of timeless importance to the ideals of liberty, democracy, and unity.