As The United States of America approaches its 250th birthday, Pennsylvania’s state motto is worth a moment of your time.

Virtue, Liberty, and Independence

Engraver Caleb Lownes incorporated our state’s motto into Pennsylvania’s coat of arms in 1778. As a Philadelphian, he was acutely aware of the state’s role in the independence movement. As a Quaker, he valued fairness and humanity – evidenced in his later efforts to reform prison practices and allow for rehabilitation instead of mere punishment. How did these three words reflect the values of Pennsylvanians? 

Virtue spoke to moral strength in one’s personal life, which included responsibility for and participation in civic life. Citizens were expected to be honest and to act in the common good.

Liberty referenced the personal and political freedoms endorsed by William Penn. Having been jailed several times in England for his Quakerism, he saw how abusive authority sought to punish difference. Having experienced intolerance himself, he wished for a more just and fairer government.  

Independence referred to the state’s role in creating a nation free from Britain and its king. The people of Pennsylvania rejected unaccountable imperial rule. They feared concentrated power not just in the form of kings, but also in standing armies and oppressive central governments. They wanted every farmer, shopkeeper, or tradesman to be secure enough to speak freely and act without fear.

These three principles function as a meaningful trio. Liberty without virtue can become exploitation. Independence without virtue can become tribalism and contempt for the common good. Virtue without liberty or independence can become authoritarianism. The insightful choices of early Americans remain poignantly instructive today, 248 years later.

Story by Keith Recker
Photography by Blaise Hayward

Editioned fine art prints of each state quarter are available for sale at blaisehayward.com.

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