The Tradition and Symbolism of Caps and Mortarboards

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The Tradition and Symbolism of Caps and Mortarboards

The cap, or mortarboard, is an iconic symbol of academic achievement and tradition. Its origins and evolution are deeply rooted in history, and its significance extends beyond mere fashion.To get more news about CAP & MORTARBOARDS, you can visit higraduation.com official website.

The **mortarboard** gets its name from its resemblance to the tool used by masons to hold mortar. It consists of a flat square board attached to a skull-cap, with a tassel hanging from a button in the center. The square shape is said to symbolize the book, reflecting the scholarly ambitions of the wearer.
The tradition of wearing **caps** dates back to the 12th century when universities were first established. Scholars, most of whom were clerics or aspiring to join the clergy, wore caps to keep their heads warm in the unheated buildings.

Over time, the cap evolved into the mortarboard, which became popular in the 16th century. The mortarboard became associated with scholars and academia, and by the 19th century, it was adopted by most universities in the United States and Europe as part of academic regalia.

The **tassel** on the mortarboard also holds significance. It is typically black or matches the color of the gown, representing the university's colors or the scholar's field of study. The act of moving the tassel from one side to another during graduation symbolizes the individual's transition from student to graduate.

In conclusion, caps and mortarboards are more than just headwear. They are symbols of hard work, achievement, and tradition that carry centuries of academic history. As graduates toss their caps into the air, they are participating in a ritual that connects them with scholars of the past and future.