📜 The National Motto of France: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

What is the motto of France? Quelle est la devise de la France ?

The national motto of France is “Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité,” which translates to Liberty, Equality, Fraternity (or brotherhood). This powerful motto captures the spirit of the French Revolution and remains a fundamental principle of the French Republic to this day.

🗝️ Here’s a breakdown of what each word represents:

Liberty (Liberté):

Liberty stands for the freedom of individuals — the right of every person to live life on their own terms, free from oppression or tyranny. This idea was central to the French Revolution, where the French people fought to end the monarchy and dismantle the feudal system that restricted their rights. Liberté reminds us that freedom is a cornerstone of society.

⚖️ Equality (Égalité):

Equality is the principle that all people, regardless of their background, wealth, or social status, are equal before the law. The French Revolution sought to eradicate the deep social divisions and create a society where every citizen had the same opportunities and rights. Égalité encourages us to recognize the dignity and worth of all individuals, ensuring fairness and justice for everyone.

🤝 Fraternity (Fraternité):

Fraternity represents the sense of solidarity, unity, and mutual respect among all citizens. It encourages people to work together for the common good, understanding that we are stronger when we support one another. Fraternité speaks to the heart of a compassionate society, one built on cooperation and shared values.

📚 Historical Context:

The phrase Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité first came to life during the French Revolution in the late 18th century. In fact, Article 1 of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (1789) declares that “all men are born and remain free and equal in rights.”

Though these three values were essential to the Revolution, it wasn’t until December 1790 that they officially appeared together, thanks to Maximilien Robespierre. In his Discourse on the Organisation of the National Guard, Robespierre suggested the inscription “The French People” and “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity” on the flags and uniforms of the National Guard. Although the idea wasn’t initially adopted, the motto resurfaced in 1793 during the Reign of Terror, when Jean-Nicolas Pache, Mayor of Paris, ordered it to be inscribed on public buildings as a radical slogan: “Unity, indivisibility of the Republic, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity or death.”

This motto came to symbolize the ideals of the Revolution: the fall of the monarchy, the rise of democracy, and the establishment of the First French Republic in 1792. It wasn’t until 1848, with the rise of the Third Republic, that Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité was officially adopted as the national motto.

🇫🇷 Symbolism in Modern France:

Today, the motto remains a powerful symbol of French identity. It serves as a constant reminder of France’s commitment to upholding democratic values, human rights, and the common good. The motto is prominently displayed on official documents, public buildings, and even coins, reinforcing its deep connection to the nation’s culture and history.

🤔 So, what about you?

As an example, on France Inter’s Matinale programme, Léa Salamé invites her guests to reflect on one of the three values — Liberty, Equality, or Fraternity — and to choose which one they would embody or represent. So, if you had to choose, which one would you pick?

France’s motto comes alive during national celebrations like 14 Juillet, the country’s Independence Day.

After exploring France’s national motto, see where French is spoken around the world in our article on French official language countries.

Once you’ve learned about France’s national motto, discover the other names for France used throughout history and culture.