Tennessee, the Volunteer State, has many symbols.
Official symbols of the state are designated by act of the Tennessee General Assembly. The earliest state symbol was the first state seal, which was authorized by the original state constitution of 1796 and first used in 1802.[1] The current seal design was adopted in 1987.
The General Assembly also has officially designated a state slogan, "Tennessee—America at Its Best," adopted in 1965, and a state motto, "Agriculture and Commerce," adopted in 1987 and based on the words on the state seal.[1]
“The Volunteer State", was originated during the War of 1812 when many Tennesseans enlisted in the military in response to Governor Willie Blount's call for volunteers.[1]
- ^ a b c "About Tennessee: Tennessee Symbols and Honors" (PDF). Tennessee Blue Book, 2013-2014. Tennessee Department of State. 2013. OCLC 1253733.