Minnesota's motto, L'Étoile du Nord, is a French phrase that translates to "The Star of the North" in English.
Minnesota's Unique State Motto
L'Étoile du Nord holds a distinctive place among U.S. state mottos as it is the only one expressed entirely in French. This reflects a unique historical and cultural facet of Minnesota.
Origin and Adoption of the Motto
The selection of this specific motto dates back to the foundational years of Minnesota's statehood, shortly after its admission into the Union.
- Selection: The motto was chosen by Henry Hastings Sibley, who served as Minnesota's first governor.
- Adoption: It was officially adopted in 1861, which was just three years after Minnesota became a U.S. state.
Understanding "The Star of the North"
The English translation, "The Star of the North," symbolically represents Minnesota's geographical position as the northernmost state in the contiguous United States. It evokes an image of Minnesota as a prominent, guiding presence in the northern reaches of the country.
Motto at a Glance
For a quick overview of Minnesota's motto, refer to the table below:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| French Motto | L'Étoile du Nord |
| English Translation | The Star of the North |
| Language | French (unique among U.S. state mottos) |
| Chosen By | Governor Henry Hastings Sibley |
| Year Adopted | 1861 |
