Symbols from four significant events in France’s history illustrate the themes of A Pageant of French History. The Roman Period features a sword with the letters S.P.Q.R., an abbreviation for “The Senate and the People of Rome”. Five spears symbolize New United France, while a crown atop a torch illustrates Absolute Monarchy Established Under Louis XIV. The fourth spandrel is a tribute to the French Republic, with the large letters RF and three symbols for unity, freedom and victory.