Olive branch

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Olive branch is a colloquial term referring to a concession or a gesture of peace, as well as a peace symbol. Deriving from its origins in Ancient Greece as a symbol of peace and prosperity, the olive branch is used throughout many western cultures to convey the idea of peace. In Ancient Rome, the defeated carried olive branches in order to seek peace.

Olive branches are used throughout modern and classical works to represent peace. The eagle, on the Great Seal of the United States, grasps with its right talon an olive branch containing 13 olives and leaves, while the flags of many nations (including the seal of the United Nations) feature olive branches in their design. Also used in many police patches and badges across the world to signify peace.

Why the olive branch came to symbolize peace remains something of a mystery. Speculative explanations tend to center around the idea that olive trees take a very long time to bear fruit. Thus the cultivation of olives is something that is generally impossible in time of war. Some theologists speculate that it may represent the branch brought back to Noah's Ark by the dove during the Flood. See also the explanation in the 'Peace symbol' article.

Several towns have been named Olive Branch as a symbol of peaceful living, such as Olive Branch, Mississippi.

Greek Mythology

Zeus bestowed the newly created city of Athens to the god providing the most useful gift to humanity. Poseidon offered the horse, thought of as primarily for war. Athena offered the olive tree.

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