Minnesota State Symbols and History Quiz

Who designed the Minnesota state seal?

What prompted the change in the direction of the American Indian on the state seal?

What do the 19 stars on the Minnesota state flag symbolize?

Why did the Legislature adopt the one-sided, all-blue design for the state flag in 1957?

Why was the common loon adopted as the state bird of Minnesota?

What did the Secretary of State Francis Baasen say to Gov. Henry H. Sibley on May 25, 1858?

Why was the vastly different seal approved by the Legislature in 1858 never officially adopted into law?

When was the Great Seal of Minnesota first authorized for use?

Why was the use of the territorial seal authorized after Minnesota became a state?

What happened in 1861 regarding the approval of the Great Seal of Minnesota's design?

Minnesota State Seal and Flag

The Minnesota state seal was designed by the artist and legislator, John W. North.
A change in the direction of the American Indian on the state seal was prompted by concerns over the portrayal of Native Americans and to reflect a more historically accurate representation.
The 19 stars on the Minnesota state flag symbolize Minnesota’s admission as the 19th state in the Union.

State Flag Design

In 1957, the Legislature adopted the one-sided, all-blue design for the state flag to promote simplicity and reduce manufacturing costs; the previous design was more complex and costly to produce.

State Bird and Notable Quotes

The common loon was adopted as the state bird of Minnesota due to its iconic presence in the state’s lakes and its cultural significance.
On May 25, 1858, Secretary of State Francis Baasen informed Governor Henry H. Sibley that Minnesota was officially accepted as a state, signaling the start of its status within the Union.

Legislative Actions on the Seal

The vastly different seal approved by the Legislature in 1858 never officially became law due to a lack of implementation and subsequent legislative actions.
The Great Seal of Minnesota was first authorized for use in 1858, coinciding with the state's admission to the Union.
After Minnesota became a state, the use of the territorial seal was authorized to maintain continuity during the transition to statehood.
In 1861, amendments to the design of the Great Seal of Minnesota received approval, showcasing ongoing changes in state symbols.

Test your knowledge of Minnesota's state symbols and history with this quiz. Learn about the various emblems that represent the state and delve into the controversies surrounding the Great Seal of Minnesota.