National symbol

A national symbol is a symbol of any entity considering itself and manifesting itself to the world as a national community – namely sovereign states, but also nations and countries in a state of colonial or other dependence, (con)federal integration, or even an ethnocultural community considered a 'nationality' despite the absence of political autonomy.

National symbols intend to unite people by creating visual, verbal, or iconic representations of the national people, values, goals, or history.

These symbols are often rallied around as part of celebrations of patriotism or aspiring nationalism (such as independence, autonomy or separation movements) and are designed to be inclusive and representative of all the peoples of the national community.

Common official national symbols

• The flag of a nation-state
• The coat of arms, seal or stamp of the land and/or ruling dynasty
• The associated device and/or motto can also be used separately
• The national colors, often derived from the above
• Either the above or more abstract symbols, especially crosses,
• National anthems, royal and imperial hymns; alongside such official hymn(s) custom may also recognize the national symbol value of very popular songs
• The office of the Head of State, and in case of a monarchy (often to some extent even after its political elimination) certain of its regalia, such as crown jewels
• The Father of the Nation and other founding fathers
• The national roundel for aircraft

Common unofficial national symbols

• National myths about the country's history or founding
• National epics
• National sports
• National dishes
• National animal and national bird
• National trees, national flowers and national fruits
• National cockade
• National personification
• National dress - this can have a more official character in the case of court dress or military uniforms
• National Day
• National instruments
• National language
• Folk dances
• Official script
• Folk hero
• Folk music
• National artist
• National composer
• National poet
• Culture hero
• Monuments and clichés associated with tourism
• Various other national emblems, including special plants, animals and objects associated with the nation
• In a nation largely stamped by a particular religion, some of its most revered symbols may be adopted as national symbols (occasionally even officially), e.g. the national patron saint or equivalent deity, a major pilgrimage site, church or temple

See also

• Religion in national symbols
• List of international auto racing colors
• Nationalism