South Dakota Motto

"Under God the people rule"

Adopted in 1885.

Language: English

Focus: Religious and People

See South Dakota State Seal

South Dakota motto was adopted as part of the state seal. It was suggested by the Reverend Joseph Ward, founder of Yankton College, at the 1885 Constitutional Convention. It was adopted as the South Dakota motto, as an element of the state seal in the 1885 constitution and in the 1889 constitution.

The wording in the South Dakota Constitution, pertaining to the motto, reads:

Properly divided between the upper and lower edges of the circle shall appear the legend, "Under God the People Rule" which shall be the motto of the state of South Dakota.

There are four states with mottos that mention "God." Most people would probably regard them as being religious mottos:

1. Arizona: "Ditat Deus" This means "God Enriches in Latin."
2. Florida: "In God We Trust." -- identical to the current national motto
3. Ohio: "With God, All Things Are Possible." This is a direct biblical quotation from the King James Version of Matthew 19:25-26: "When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."
4. South Dakota: "Under God, The People Rule."

There are three other states with mottos that make reference to "God."

1. Colorado: "Nothing Without Providence"
2. Connecticut: "He Who Transplanted Still Sustains"
3. Maine: "I Direct"

There are three states with mottos that focus on the people:

1. Arkansas: "The People Rule"
2. Missouri: "The Welfare of the People"
3. South Dakota "Under God the People Rule"