Illinois' State Motto: "State Sovereignty, National Union"

Illinois's official state motto is State sovereignty National Union a phrase that reflects the state's commitment to both state autonomy and National Unity The Motto appears on the Illinois state seal and state flag symbolizing the delicate balance between state and federal power the origins of the motto can be traced back to the post Civil War era when National Unity was of prime importance the phrase was likely chosen to emphasize the state's commit to the union while also acknowledging the importance of State sovereignty it was a controversial choice at the time as the concept of State sovereignty had been a point of contention during the Civil War despite the controversy State sovereignty National Union has endured as Illinois state motto for over a century it serves as a reminder of the state's complex history and its role in shaping the United States The Motto symbolizes Illinois commitment to finding a balance between state and federal power reflecting the values of its people and the state's enduring role in the nation Illinois State slogan Land of Lincoln was adopted by the general assembly in 1955 this slogan along with the state nickname the Prairie State further reinforces the state's identity and its connection to its history