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e-source 5 – The Great Seal

The Great Seal is an important symbol of the sovereign’s role as head of state. It is attached to a document to authenticate it and to make it official. During James’ reign, the seal was made of beeswax strengthened with resin.

A new design or matrix is created at the beginning of each monarch’s reign. King James VI had his own seal. When Queen Elizabeth I died and James became King James I of England, his Great Seal was changed to mark the union of the two kingdoms. The designs used in James’ seals display two important aspects of leadership – the power to administer justice and the authority to lead armies into battle.

There are 4 images in this section with 2 online and 1 printable activity

Read about the source then click on the magnifying glass to enlarge the image.

Move your cursor over the images to find out more about the different parts of the great seals and the significance of the symbols in the designs.

Compare the design on the seals before and after the Union of the Crowns.

 

Front Image of The Great Seal

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Front Image of Post Union Seal

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