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POPSHistorians Unlock U.S. Seal's Secrets Great Seal: Fact and Fiction Myth: The design signifies the U.S. is run by Freemasons or some sort of cult. Fact: The seal uses several Masonic symbols, including the unfinished pyramid, but the symbols aren't exclusive to the Freemasons. Myth: Repeated references to the number 13 -- including the steps in the pyramid -- represent the power of 13 American families. Fact: Thirteen is used as a reference to the nation's original 13 colonies. Myth: The Seal draws on Satanism or other rituals to promote a world run by a single government. Fact: The words "Annuit Coeptis" ("Providence favors") and the eye of providence over the pyramid refer to twists of fate that helped bring about the birth of the United States. Source: AP