NATIONAL SYMBOLS Pursuant to Art. 13 of the Federal Constitution, the four official emblems of the Federative Republic of Brazil are: the national flag, the national anthem, the Republic’s coat of arms and the national seal. Emblems are graphic and musical manifestations of important historical value, designed to transmit the sentiments of national union and sovereignty. The Brazilian national anthem lyrics were written by Joaquim Osório Duque Estrada (1870-1927), a poet and journalist; and the music composed by Francisco Manuel da Silva (1795-1865), a conductor and professor. The anthem is regulated by Law No 5,700 of September 1st, 1971. The Republic Coat of Arms National Flag After the Republic was proclaimed on November 15, 1889, a new flag was created to represent the country’s achievements and historic moment. Inspired by the imperial flag, the new flag was designed by Jean Baptiste Debret (a French painter), Teixeira Mendes, Miguel Lemosand and Decio Vilares. It was approved by Decree No 4 of the Republic’s provisional government. The new flag kept the tradition of the yellow diamond on a green field, but introduced the blue sphere spotted with stars and a white slanting strip, descending from left to right, with the motto “Order and Progress”. The stars, including the Southern Cross constellation, represent each one of the Brazilian states. Pursuant to Law No 8,421, of May 11, 1992, should a state be created or removed, the group of stars must be updated. Engineer Artur Zauer, by order of President Deodoro da Fonseca, designed the Brazilian Coat of Arms. It is a sky blue shield, supported on a five-pointed star, with an upraised sword. Around it, there is a wreath made by a fructified coffee branch and a tobacco branch set over a golden radiance. The use of the coat of arms is mandatory for the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches, and it figures in all public buildings. National Seal The national seal of Brazil is based on the sphere of the national flag. Inside it there is a circle reading Federative Republic of Brazil. It is used to certify government acts, diplomas and certificates issued by official or certified schools. DEFENSE WHITE PAPER 23 CHAPTER 1 — THE BRAZILIAN STATE AND NATIONAL DEFENSE National Anthem