Olive branch is a colloquial term referring to a concession or a gesture of peace, as well as a peace symbol. Deriving from its origins in Ancient Greece as a symbol of peace and prosperity, the olive branch is used throughout many western cultures to convey the idea of peace.
Olive branches are used throughout modern and classical works to represent peace. The eagle, in the Great Seal of the United States, grasps 13 olive branches in one talon, while the flags of many nations (including the seal of the United Nations) feature olive branches in their design.
Why the olive branch came to symbolize peace remains something of a mystery. Speculative explanations tend to center around the idea that olive trees take a very long time to bear fruit. Thus the cultivation of olives is something that is generally impossible in time of war. See also an explanation in the 'Peace symbol' article.
