Suriname Coat of Arms: History and Symbolism
The national coat of arms of Suriname is more than just a formal emblem; it is a visual narrative of the country's complex history, its diverse population, and its foundational values. From its colonial origins to its emergence as a sovereign nation, the evolution of this symbol reflects the journey of the Surinamese people.
The Evolution of Suriname's Heraldry
The heraldic history of Suriname is deeply tied to its colonial past. In 1682, the coat of arms belonged to the Dutch West India Company. This changed shortly after in 1683 with the establishment of the 'Society of Suriname'.
For a significant period, the region utilized the coat of arms of the City of Amsterdam, which remained in use as late as 1770. However, upon gaining independence in 1975, Suriname introduced a new coat of arms. This redesign was intentional, aimed at respecting the indigenous population and creating a distinct identity for the newly independent state.
Symbolism and Meaning
The current coat of arms is rich with imagery that represents the unity and diversity of the nation.
The Supporters and Central Icons
The emblem features two Arawak Indians, who serve as supporters to represent the unity of the Indigenous people. In the center, a bright yellow star symbolizes the global migration to Suriname, acknowledging people who arrived from Africa, Asia, America, Australia, and Europe.
Positioned in the middle is a green diamond shape, which represents a heart.
The Shield and its Divisions
The oval shield is divided into two distinct sections that contrast the nation's past and its ideals:
- The Left Side: Depicts a boat, symbolizing the history of slavery and the forced migration of people shipped from Africa.
- The Right Side: Depicts the rain forest, which symbolizes justice.
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The National Motto
At the bottom of the shield, a banner displays the Latin phrase 'JUSTITIA PIETAS FIDES'. These three words define the moral pillars of the country:
- Justitia: Meaning 'justified'.
- Pietas: Meaning faithfulness toward God, family, and country.
- Fides: Meaning loyalty to commitment.
Key Facts
- Independence Year: The current coat of arms was adopted in 1975.
- Indigenous Representation: Two Arawak Indians symbolize indigenous unity.
- Global Diversity: A yellow star represents migrants from five continents.
- Historical Roots: Previously linked to the Dutch West India Company (1682) and the City of Amsterdam.
- Motto: 'Justitia Pietas Fides' (Justified, Faithfulness, Loyalty).
| Element | Representation |
|---|---|
| Arawak Indians | Unity of Indigenous people |
| Yellow Star | Migrants from America, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe |
| Green Diamond | A heart |
| Boat (Left Shield) | History of slavery and African migration |
| Rain Forest (Right Shield) | Justice |
| Banner | The motto 'Justitia Pietas Fides' |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Suriname adopt its current coat of arms?
Suriname introduced its current coat of arms in 1975, the year the country achieved its independence.
What do the Arawak Indians on the emblem represent?
The two Arawak Indians represent the unity of the Indigenous people of Suriname.
What is the meaning of the yellow star in the center?
The bright yellow star symbolizes the diverse populations that migrated to Suriname from Africa, Asia, America, Australia, and Europe.
What does the motto 'JUSTITIA PIETAS FIDES' mean?
The motto translates to 'justified' (Justitia), faithfulness towards God, family, and country (Pietas), and loyalty to commitment (Fides).
Who controlled the coat of arms before the Society of Suriname was formed?
In 1682, the coat of Suriname belonged to the Dutch West India Company before the 'Society of Suriname' was established in 1683.