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The Dual Identity Of Vermont's State Motto: 5 Surprising Facts About 'Freedom And Unity' And Its Latin Twin

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The state motto of Vermont, "Freedom and Unity," is far more than a simple, two-word phrase; it is a foundational philosophical statement that has guided the Green Mountain State since its earliest days. Adopted for the Great Seal in the late 18th century, the motto encapsulates the delicate balance between the fiercely independent spirit of Vermonters and the essential need for collective action to maintain a functional society and state. This seemingly straightforward motto has a surprisingly complex history, a modern-day Latin counterpart, and is currently the namesake of a major state initiative to make college tuition-free for thousands of residents.

As of late 2025, the motto remains a vibrant, living part of Vermont's identity, influencing everything from state iconography to educational policy. A deeper look reveals not just one, but two official mottos, each telling a unique story about Vermont's place in American history, and a modern scholarship program that brings the spirit of "Unity" to life by addressing economic inequality. The phrase is a constant reminder of the state’s core values: protect individual liberties, but always remember the strength found in solidarity.

The Original Motto: Freedom and Unity (Libertas et Unitas)

The phrase "Freedom and Unity" was formally adopted as an element of the Vermont State Seal in 1779, a full 12 years before Vermont officially became the 14th state in the Union. While some sources cite 1788 as the official adoption year for the Great Seal, the concept was central to the state's identity from the beginning.

The Philosophical Meaning of the Dual Motto

The motto is a profound statement on political philosophy, especially relevant to a state born from a revolutionary spirit and a desire for independence. It represents a paradox that every free society must reconcile.

  • Freedom (Libertas): This side of the motto champions the individual liberties, rights, and fiercely independent nature for which Vermonters are famous. It reflects the American ideal of self-determination.
  • Unity (Unitas): This component acknowledges that individual freedom can only be sustained through a collective commitment to the common good, law, and order. It is the realization that a state, or any society, cannot function without cooperation and solidarity among its citizens.

The first Governor of Vermont, Thomas Chittenden, is said to have cited the state motto in his epitaph, underscoring its deep historical significance: "Out of storm and manifold perils rose an enduring state, the home of freedom and unity". The motto appears prominently on the state's coat of arms, the state seal, and the Vermont quarter, making it a constant visual symbol of the state's core values.

The 21st Century Addition: The Latin Motto of the 14th Star

In a surprising and unique move for a U.S. state, Vermont officially adopted a second, Latin state motto in 2015. This addition was not a replacement for "Freedom and Unity," but rather a complementary phrase that celebrates Vermont's unique historical status.

The Story of "Stella Quarta Decima Fulgeat"

The adoption of the Latin motto is a fantastic story of civic engagement driven by a young student. The phrase, "Stella quarta decima fulgeat," which translates to "May the 14th star shine bright," was proposed by Angela Kubicke, a 15-year-old Latin student at the time.

Kubicke wrote to her state senator suggesting the idea, and the proposal quickly gained traction, culminating in Governor Peter Shumlin making the new Latin motto official during a UVM Latin Day event.

The significance of the phrase is a direct nod to Vermont’s place in American history. Vermont was the first state admitted to the Union after the original 13 colonies, officially becoming the 14th state on March 4, 1791. This secondary motto provides a poetic and historical layer to the state's identity, ensuring that its status as the "14th Star" is never forgotten.

Bringing "Freedom and Unity" to Life: The College Tuition Program

The state motto is not confined to historical documents and state seals; in the current political and educational landscape, "Freedom and Unity" has been transformed into a tangible program of social unity and support.

The Freedom & Unity Scholarship Initiative

In a powerful demonstration of the "Unity" component of the motto, the state of Vermont, in partnership with the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) and Vermont State University (VTSU), launched a major tuition-free college initiative named after the state motto: the Freedom & Unity Scholarship.

This program is designed to make higher education accessible to Vermonters who need it most, directly addressing economic barriers to opportunity. The key details of the program, which was created with support from Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont Legislature, include:

  • Goal: To offer tuition-free college attendance at Vermont State University (VTSU).
  • Eligibility: The program is specifically for Vermont students whose family income is $65,000 or less.
  • Impact: By removing the financial burden of tuition for low- and middle-income families, the state is acting on the principle of "Unity"—ensuring that the freedom to pursue education is not limited by economic status.

The naming of this initiative after the state motto is a deliberate and modern interpretation of the phrase. It suggests that true societal unity requires the collective effort of the state government and its institutions to ensure that all citizens have the freedom to achieve their potential. This program, which offers over 100 flexible degree programs, serves as a powerful, real-world example of the motto's enduring relevance.

Key Entities and LSI Keywords Related to Vermont’s Motto

The history and modern application of Vermont’s motto are intertwined with several key entities and concepts, all of which contribute to the state's unique topical authority:

  • Thomas Chittenden: The first governor, who connected the motto to the state’s enduring foundation.
  • Great Seal of Vermont: The original home of the "Freedom and Unity" motto, adopted in 1779.
  • Angela Kubicke: The high school student responsible for the adoption of the Latin motto in 2015.
  • Vermont State University (VTSU): The institution central to the modern "Freedom & Unity" tuition-free scholarship program.
  • Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC): The partner organization helping to administer the tuition-free college program.
  • Governor Phil Scott: The current governor who supported and promoted the "Freedom & Unity" scholarship.
  • The 14th State: The historical fact that the Latin motto celebrates, marking Vermont's entry into the Union.
  • Coat of Arms of Vermont: Another key piece of state iconography where the motto is displayed.
  • Vermont Quarter: The U.S. Mint coin that features the motto on its reverse side.
  • Latin Motto: The unique addition of "Stella quarta decima fulgeat" to the state's official symbols.
  • Individual Freedom: The core philosophical concept represented by the "Freedom" half of the motto.
  • Collective Action: The social necessity represented by the "Unity" half of the motto.

In conclusion, the Vermont state motto is a dynamic symbol with a dual identity. It is a classic 18th-century philosophical statement, "Freedom and Unity," and a modern 21st-century historical tribute, "Stella quarta decima fulgeat." The motto's continued use in major state programs like the Freedom & Unity Scholarship at VTSU proves that this historical phrase is not just a relic of the past, but a guiding principle for the future of the Green Mountain State, balancing the independence of its people with the strength of their shared community.

The Dual Identity of Vermont's State Motto: 5 Surprising Facts About 'Freedom and Unity' and Its Latin Twin
state motto of vermont
state motto of vermont

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