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Civic Heraldry of Belize

National arms of BELIZE

Origin/meaning:
The former colony of British Honduras already received its own arms in 1819. These arms showed in the first field the British flag, the second field shows several tools, used for forestry, the main source of income for the colony. The lower part shows a sailing ship.

The arms of 1819

In 1907 the arms were changed. Two of the tools were now placed behind the British flag and in both upper fields the tools were crossed. New additions were the wreath with the Mahogany tree, another symbol for forestry, the supporters and motto. The supporters were two native woodorkers, one carrying an axe, the other a paddle. The motto, Sub Umbra Floreo means 'I flourish in the shadows'.

The arms of 1907

In 1967 the arms were slightly changed; the tree was directly placed on the shield, the British flag was removed as Belize had become semi-independent in 1964. Furthermore, one of the supporters was changed to a Creole. These arms were used until 1981 (total independence) when the present arms were introduced. The only difference is that the arms are now placed on a green base and a larger mahogany tree.

The arms of 1967

Literature : Images and information taken from http://www.christian-siemer.de/wappen/amerika/belize.htm

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