Even after declaring its independence from aristocratic Europe, the United States retained the custom of using graphic devices to denote status in military and civil life. This extensively illustrated book explains the rules and practices of heraldry, along with hundreds of examples of official, corporate, and private emblems and orders. Drawn from colonial documents, wills and deeds, old tombstones, family dinner plates, and numerous other sources, this reader-friendly book groups its vast amount of information in a concise and accessible manner. It chronicles the origin and development of heraldry and its history in America, including its appearances on monuments and buildings, its symbolism, and the rules that govern its use. American flags, seals, and coins receive particular attention, as do colonial societies and American civilian and military organizations. The authoritative guide to heraldic emblems and their use in America, this volume is an indispensable guide for students of history and a practical resource for illustrators and graphic designers. Architects, authors, and lovers of literature and the fine arts will also appreciate these insights into heraldic law.