The Bahamas, an archipelago of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, has a rich and diverse history that's reflected in its symbols, especially its coat of arms. The current coat of arms of the Bahamas was adopted on 7 December 1971 and offers a visual representation of the unique characteristics and history of the nation.
Description of the Coat of Arms:
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The Shield: Central to the coat of arms is a shield, which is the primary symbol representing the nation. It features a golden sun setting over the blue ocean, which signifies the geographic position of the Bahamas as a group of islands lying to the west of the Atlantic Ocean. The lower section depicts a ship, representing the Santa Maria of Christopher Columbus, who made landfall in the New World for the first time on the island of San Salvador in 1492.
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The Supporters: On either side of the shield stand a marlin and a flamingo, the national animals of the Bahamas. The blue marlin, positioned on the left, symbolizes the strength of the nation, while the pink flamingo on the right represents the native wildlife and the natural beauty of the Bahamas.
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The Motto: Below the shield is a banner bearing the national motto, “Forward, Upward, Onward, Together.” This powerful phrase encapsulates the aspirational spirit of the Bahamian people, encouraging unity, progress, and collective effort.
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The Helm and Mantling: Above the shield is a helmet, draped with a mantling. The helmet is traditionally a symbol of sovereignty and authority, while the mantling, with its intricate design, adds an additional layer of elegance and grandeur.
- The Crest: Atop the helmet sits the crest, a conch shell, once again emphasizing the significance of marine life to the Bahamian identity and economy.
The Coat of Arms of the Bahamas serves as a visual representation of the nation's history, culture, and natural beauty. It encapsulates the spirit of the Bahamian people and their journey through history, highlighting their connection to the marine environment, their strength, and their commitment to progress and unity.