Olive branch
Olive branch is a colloquial term referring to a concession or a gesture of peace, as well as a
peace symbol. Deriving from its origins in
Ancient Greece as a symbol of peace and prosperity, the olive branch is used throughout many
western cultures to convey the idea of
peace. In
Ancient Rome, the defeated carried olive branches in order to seek
peace.
Olive branches are used throughout modern and classical works to represent peace. The
eagle, on the
Great Seal of the United States, grasps with its right talon an olive branch containing 13 olives and leaves, while the flags of many nations feature olive branches in their design.
Encyclopedia
Olive branch is a colloquial term referring to a concession or a gesture of peace, as well as a
peace symbol. Deriving from its origins in
Ancient Greece as a symbol of peace and prosperity, the olive branch is used throughout many
western cultures to convey the idea of
peace. In
Ancient Rome, the defeated carried olive branches in order to seek
peace.
Olive branches are used throughout modern and classical works to represent peace. The
eagle, on the
Great Seal of the United States, grasps with its right talon an olive branch containing 13 olives and leaves, while the flags of many nations feature olive branches in their design. Also used in many police patches and badges across the world to signify peace.
Why the olive branch came to symbolize peace remains something of a mystery. Speculative explanations tend to center around the idea that
olive trees take a very long time to bear fruit. Thus the cultivation of olives is something that is generally impossible in time of
war. Some theologists speculate that it may represent the branch brought back to
Noah's Ark by the dove during the Flood. See also the explanation in the '
Peace symbol' article.
Several towns have been named
Olive Branch as a symbol of peaceful living, such as Olive Branch, Mississippi.
Greek Mythology
Zeus bestowed the newly created city of
Athens to the god providing the most useful gift to humanity.
Poseidon offered the
horse, thought of as primarily for war.
Athena offered the olive tree.
