- Symbols have been used to identify family, tribe, and nation for thousands of years.
- Heraldry appears to have begun in Europe in the twelfth century. It spread rapidly, first among the major and minor nobility, and later among the clergy, merchants and tradesmen.
- The chief purpose is identification, so it was used on shields, banners and to mark fixed and portable property.
- It was used on seals to authenticate documents.
- Initially there was no control over the adoption or use of arms.
- In England and in Scotland, the most senior heralds, the Kings Of Arms, were delegated Royal authority to be the sole legitimate sources of arms.