Ok, this is the beginning of what we will post. If you wish to add something just say it.

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1. The origin

CoA's were used as a way to defend oneself and/or its community accompanied with a sign of recognition.

One of these recognition signs from a group (warriors) and those who belong to that group, was a stick with an object ( figure of an animal ), a flag or banner which portrayed colours and signs.

The shield was a way to defend oneself during battle. Out of experience in battle the shield received a hounorary place from those who practiced combat. These colours and signs were placed upon the shield, clothing and helmet. With warriors on horse they were displayed also on the clothing of the horse for recognition during the battle.

2. Development

Heraulds were introduced at one time to convey a message to the opposite party. ( one of the many tasks they had )These heraulds were recognisable by the previous mentioned items. The herauld was immune and could always pass to convey the message to the opposite party. He was supposed to have an extensive knowledge on the signs used by the other parties for identification. Out of this the registration of recognisable symbols and objects was born. At current day only the U.K, The Netherlands and Sweden maintained the heraulds position untill today.

3. Right of Usage

The right of using a symbol of recognition was give by a feudal lord. This symbol ( permanent one ) had to be earned. In the 13th and 14th century breaches were made in the crests to define a line in the family. The oldest son had this right but usually took over the original arm.
In e.g. western Europe Philip the II forbade on 23 of september 1595 the misusage of the Coat of Arms, and set out a guideline in the usage and registration. Only if one was a direct descendant it was allowed to use a Coat of Arms.

In many countries it is a crime by law to use the Coat of Arms of an existing family. A coat of arms however is not connected to a surname. Meaning that if one with the name of Johnson uses a specific shield, this not the same case is for another Johnson.

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So much for now. More to come later.