![]() It is often attributed to the Roman poet Virgil but this is not certain. The original version of the phrase appears in the writings of Cicero. Before then, it was used by the French monarchy. ![]() Pro Deo et patria is a Latin phrase that means "for God and nation." It was the official motto of France from 1848 to 1952. In the United States, the original version of the phrase appeared on coins during the American Revolution. It is also believed that some Chinese soldiers used to wear a badge reading "Dare to Die for the Country Dare to Live for Your Countrymen" as late as the Qing dynasty. The word "patriotism" comes from the Greek term for one's country, patrios, which means "one's own country first." This patriotic spirit was present in many ancient civilizations including Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Other languages with similar phrases include French Défense de la patrie ("Defence of the Fatherland") and English Defend the Country. Patria means "country" or "fatherland," and mori means "to die." Thus the full phrase is meant to remind those who wear it that they are willing to give their lives for their country. The phrase is often written in Latin on military medals. ![]() Pro patria mori Notes: Horace, the Roman poet, said, "It is beautiful and appropriate to die for one's country." Ovid wrote that death is a small price to pay for glory and honor.
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