Historical Encyclopedia
State symbols are an important element of national identity and culture. They serve as an embodiment of state authority, patriotism, and unity of the people. In the history of Russia, symbolism has undergone numerous changes, reflecting shifts in the political structure, ideologies, and perceptions of national identity. The most important elements of state symbolism are the coat of arms, flag, and anthem, which have existed in one form or another throughout the country’s history, and their evolution is closely linked to changes in Russia's political system.
The history of the coat of arms of Russia begins in Ancient Rus, where various symbols reflected the power of princes and their territorial unity. One of the earliest coats of arms is the image of a double-headed eagle, which appears on coins and seals used by Russian princes. This symbolized power prevailing at two levels — in principalities as well as across the broad territory united into a single Rus.
However, the main symbol of Rus became the coat of arms that was used from the 14th century. It was a golden double-headed eagle on a red shield, which became the official coat of arms of the Grand Duchy of Moscow. It is with this coat of arms that the strengthening of central authority in Russia is associated and its aspiration to become a great power.
When Ivan IV the Terrible became the first tsar of Russia in 1547, he confirmed the double-headed eagle as the official emblem of the country. This symbol continued to be used thereafter, and in the 17th century, it became the official coat of arms of the Russian Empire. The double-headed eagle symbolized the unity of the East and the West, while its crown and scepter embodied the authority of the monarch standing above the entire state.
After the 1917 revolution and the establishment of Soviet Russia, the coat of arms changed. The new coat of arms, adopted in 1922, depicted a sickle and hammer, which symbolized the union of workers and peasants. The coat of arms of Soviet Russia became a symbol of the new revolutionary power, and the double-headed eagle was removed, making way for new symbols of socialist ideology.
With the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the formation of the Russian Federation in 1991, a new coat of arms was adopted — the double-headed eagle returned, but with a modified design, symbolizing a return to historical traditions and the strengthening of Russia's role as the successor of the great empire. The eagle is depicted with two crowns, one for Moscow and one for the empire, and in its claws, it holds a scepter and orb, as symbols of royal authority. This return of the symbol was perceived as an important step in restoring Russia's historical continuity.
The state flag of Russia has a rich and long history, with roots going back to ancient times. In the mid-17th century, the practice of using flags for ships began in the Tsardom of Moscow, and one of the first flags of Russia was white-blue-red. This flag was used for merchant vessels but later became a symbol of the Russian Empire.
In 1705, during the era of Peter I, a new flag was introduced for the navy, also consisting of three colors: white, blue, and red. This flag embodied Russia’s greatness on the international stage and its aspiration to strengthen maritime power. By the 18th century, the flag had gained widespread acceptance as a state symbol and has since been associated with Russia.
From 1917, after the October Revolution, the flag was changed: instead of the traditional white-blue-red flag, a red flag with a golden sickle and hammer was adopted, symbolizing the ideology of communism and revolution. This change marked the beginning of a new period in Russia's history, where workers and peasants became the foundation of power.
After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the establishment of a new government in Russia, the traditional white-blue-red flag was restored. In 1993, this flag was officially adopted as the state flag of the Russian Federation. Each of the colors on the flag has its meaning: white symbolizes peace and purity, blue – fidelity and honor, and red – courage and bravery.
The anthem of Russia is one of the most important elements of state symbolism. Throughout the history of the country, the musical piece that serves as the anthem has embodied the strength of the state, its ideology, and the unity of its people. The history of the Russian anthem is also multifaceted and interesting.
Originally, there was no anthem of Russia as such, and in the 17th century, patriotic sentiments of the people were reflected in church hymns. In the 18th century, the first "official" anthem for the Russian Empire was created — it was a composition written by composer Mikhail Glinka in 1833. This anthem was used at the court and became a symbol of imperial Russia.
After the October Revolution and the establishment of Soviet power, the anthem was altered: in 1918, an anthem written by Alexander Alexandrov was adopted, which became a symbol of the Soviet Union. The melody of the anthem remained unchanged until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Since 2000, Russia has again adopted a new anthem based on Alexandrov’s music, but with modified lyrics, written at the direction of President Vladimir Putin. This anthem has become a symbol of a new stage in Russia’s history, embodying its return to traditional values as well as its aspiration to revive former power and status.
The state symbolism of Russia plays an important role in shaping national identity and maintaining patriotism among citizens. The coat of arms, flag, and anthem are those symbols that reflect both historical heritage and aspirations for the future. The evolution of these symbols is tied to historical turning points, reforms, revolutions, and changes in the political structure.
Today, these symbols unite the citizens of Russia, reminding them of the greatness of their country and its rich historical heritage. The coat of arms of Russia, with its double-headed eagle, the flag with three colors, and the anthem resonating across the country, reflect the continuity and resilience of the Russian people who, despite many hardships, preserve their identity and culture.
The history of state symbolism of Russia is a vivid reflection of the political and social changes in the country. These symbols serve as a link between different epochs and generations, reminding us of the most significant events that have defined Russia’s path over the centuries. Studying this history helps not only to understand the political and cultural heritage of the country but also to see how symbolism reflects the changes in state power, ideologies, and values throughout various historical periods.