National Arms of Haiti
THE NATIONAL ARMS OF HAITI
Official blazon
Origin/meaning
Haiti does not use National Arms, but uses the State logo above, which was adopted on February 25, 1986.
The oldest use of a symbol for Haiti is known since 1807. The symbol shows several national flags, with two cannons and palm trees. The symbol indicates the battle for independence of the republic. The motto, in French, means 'Strength through unity'. The symbol remained in use until 1849, when President General Faustin Soulouque crowned himself as Emperor Faustin I.
The arms from 1807-1859 |
At the same time he adopted new Imperial arms, showing two cannons and a (French) imperial eagle. Two lions were used as supporter and the whole placed in a purple mantle. The emperor was forced to leave the country in 1859, after which the old symbol was restored.
The Imperial arms (1849-1859) |
The Imperial arms (1849-1859) |
Ever since the composition has been the same, but the colours and items have changed somewhat.
The symbol from 1964-1986:
The arms on a 1817 coin |
The arms on a 1890 coin |
The arms on a 1908 coin |
The arms on a 1991 coin |
The arms on a Dutch trade card, +/- 1905 |
The arms on a German postcard, 1910 |
The arms on a German card, +/- 1905 |
The arms on a German card, 1936 |
The arms from a German album, 1930s |
The arms on a Dutch card, 1948 |
The arms on a Dutch matchbox label, 1970s |