The tradition of electing the coat of arms, a distinctive sign passed down from generation to generation, has deep roots in antiquity and begins with totems. The word "totem" means "his kind", it came from the Indians of North America.
Instruction manual
1
In ancient times, each clan chose a "sacred patron saint", it could be an animal or plant, from which, they believed, the tribe took its roots. Totemism was also known among the Slavic tribes, the chosen "sacred patrons" gave rise to many modern Russian surnames.
2
Other types of emblems include various images adorning military banners, armor, and sometimes personal items of the legendary knights, kings and commanders of the era of antiquity. But often these emblems were just decoration and could change.
3
The appearance of emblems in a form known to modern people originates in Europe of the 10th century, at the time of the appearance of feudalism with a hereditary aristocracy. In the eleventh century, images of emblems are increasingly found on seals fastening treaties. It is worth noting that in an era of low literacy, the use of the official seal was the only way to confirm your identity and served as a signature for certifying documents.
4
Another prerequisite for the establishment of the coat of arms was war. In the 12th century, the armor of knights becomes more complex and covers its wearer from head to toe, which makes all warriors the same, under such conditions it would be difficult to distinguish an opponent from an ally in the midst of a battle, and here generic banners came to the rescue. The emblem served as a means of communication, communicating certain information about its owner, and helped to identify each other, overcoming the language barrier and illiteracy. Therefore, it is safe to say that the Crusades, and later knightly tournaments, contributed to the widespread emblem.
5
Over time, knowledge about the coats of arms was systematized; general rules were developed for creating and determining the meanings of symbols. There are people who are well versed in this - heralds or heralds. They announced the appearance of knights in the tournament and, judging by the emblems, talked about them. From here the science of coats of arms takes its name - heraldry (from the late Latin "heraldus" - herald).
6
The basis of city and state emblems was usually laid the clan emblems of the ruling dynasties or images telling about the sights of historical events or the characteristic fishing industry. Most often, mixed emblems are found.
note
It is believed that the Russian word "coat of arms" comes from the Polish "herb" and means "inheritance".
