Each
symbol and color in the FBI seal has special significance.
The dominant blue field
of the seal and the scales on the shield represent justice. The
endless circle of 13 stars denotes unity of purpose as exemplified
by the original 13 states. The laurel leaf has, since early civilization,
symbolized academic honors, distinction and fame. There are exactly
46 leaves in the two branches, since there were 46 states in
the Union when the FBI was founded in 1908. The significance
of the red and white parallel stripes lies in their colors. Red
traditionally stands for courage, valor, strength, while white
conveys cleanliness, light, truth, and peace. As in the American
Flag, the red bars exceed the white by one. The motto, " Fidelity,
Bravery, Integrity," succinctly describes the motivating
force behind the men and women of the FBI. The peaked bevelled
edge which circumscribes the seal symbolizes the severe challenges
confronting the FBI and the ruggedness of the organization. The
gold color in the seal conveys its over-all value.
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