Flag of the United States

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Flag of the United States

The Flag of the United States of America, often referred to as the American flag or U.S. flag, is the national flag of the United States. It consists of thirteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton (referred to specifically as the "union") bearing fifty small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternating with rows of five stars. The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 U.S. states, and the 13 stripes represent the thirteen British colonies that declared independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain, and became the first states in the U.S. Nicknamed the "Stars and Stripes," the flag has been a symbol of American identity and values since its inception.

History

The history of the Flag of the United States is deeply intertwined with the history of the nation itself. On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act, stating: "Resolved, That the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation." Since then, the flag has undergone several changes, reflecting the admission of new states into the Union. The current design of the flag was adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959.

Design and symbolism

The design of the Flag of the United States is symbolic of the country's history and values. The stripes represent the original 13 colonies, while the stars symbolize the states of the Union. The colors of the flag are also symbolic; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Flag etiquette

The United States has established specific guidelines for the display and handling of the national flag, often referred to as flag etiquette. These rules are outlined in the United States Flag Code, which provides instructions on how the flag should be displayed, cared for, and used in various ceremonies. The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset on buildings and stationary flagstaffs in the open, but it may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is used.

Cultural significance

The Flag of the United States holds a significant place in American culture, symbolizing freedom, democracy, and the history of the nation. It is prominently displayed on national holidays such as Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day, and it plays a central role in public and private ceremonies. The flag is also a common motif in American art, fashion, and advertising, reflecting its pervasive role in American identity.

Controversies

Throughout its history, the American flag has been a focal point for controversies and debates regarding patriotism, freedom of expression, and political protest. The act of flag desecration, such as burning or defacing the flag, has been a contentious issue, leading to calls for constitutional amendments to prohibit such acts. However, the United States Supreme Court has ruled that flag desecration is protected by the First Amendment as a form of free speech.

See also

• Flag Day (United States)
• Flags of the U.S. states
• Great Seal of the United States
• Pledge of Allegiance