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The fleur-de-lis, a stylized lily with three petals, has been a significant symbol throughout European history, particularly in France. It became most closely associated with the French monarchy, symbolizing divine right and royal authority from the 12th century onward. French kings, such as Louis IX, used the fleur-de-lis on coats of arms, banners, and royal insignia, reinforcing its connection to nobility and Catholicism. The symbol was also adopted by the Catholic Church, representing purity and the Holy Trinity. In medieval heraldry, the fleur-de-lis was widely used across Europe, appearing in English and Spanish coats of arms, often as a sign of allegiance to France or religious devotion.

In the United States, the fleur-de-lis has strong ties to cities with French colonial history, particularly New Orleans and Louisville. New Orleans, founded by the French in 1718, adopted the fleur-de-lis as a symbol of its heritage and resilience, especially after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The city’s sports teams, such as the New Orleans Saints, prominently feature the symbol. Louisville, named after King Louis XVI of France, also embraces the fleur-de-lis in its city flag and architecture, reflecting its French roots and historical connections.

Beyond its historical associations, the fleur-de-lis has also carried complex meanings, including its use in controversial contexts. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was used to brand enslaved people in French colonies as a form of punishment. Despite this dark history, the symbol has largely been reclaimed as a representation of French heritage, cultural pride, and historical continuity. Today, it remains a prominent emblem in both European and American iconography, blending royal, religious, and regional identities.