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8 American Flag Facts That Every American Should Know

by Louise W. Rice
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The American Flag is not just fabric; it symbolizes the sacrifices of the soldiers, freedom fighters, patriotism, and American freedom. Throughout the history of America, numerous flags rose to prominence like the official American union Jack that evolved over the years and the “Don’t tread on me flag” that became popular as time passed by.

Today you can easily find numerous themed flags like the don’t tread on me flag for sale among hundreds of other flags that play a crucial role in American history.

However, there’s a vast difference between having a flag and knowing what it stands for. But don’t worry, you don’t have to read the whole American history for that. Here are eight interesting facts about American flags that every American should know.

1. The American flag has more than 27 versions

Since the first American flag in 1777 had 13 stripes and 13 stars representing the 13 American colonies, the flags went through a lot of transformation. With every new American state in the union, 1 star was added to the flag. The American flag has 50 stars proudly showcased on the union representing the 50 American states.

2. Each flag color has a meaning

The white, red, and blue colors of the American flag aren’t just a product of coincidence. They are not just for visual purposes, but each color represents the nation’s values. The founding father wanted each color to have a meaning that would bring Americans closer and inspire them. The red color represents bravery and courage. The white color represents sacredness, innocence, and purity, while the blue symbolizes justice, perseverance, and vigilance.

3. The current American flag design has lasted for more than 50 years

As mentioned before, the American flag has gone through many iterations over the years. The flag’s current design is the longest-running version despite all those changes. It is the longest-running iteration of the American flag. As there was no new state added to the union since 1959, no star was added to the union since then.

4. A 17-year-old designed the current American flag

It is okay to think that the official flag of one of the greatest countries in the world was designed by a professional. But that isn’t the case. A 17-year-old high school student from Lancaster, Ohio designed the flag. His name is Robert G. Heft; he submitted the design for the flag design contest in 1958. Then-president Dwight Eisenhower chose the style from more than 1500 submissions.

5. A snake was the official emblem of the US before the American Bald Eagle

Before the mighty American Bald Eagle was the official animal representing the United States, a snake was present on many official emblems and flags. The prominent presence of the rattlesnake can be observed on the Gadsden flag that had a timber rattlesnake in striking position on a yellow background. The words “don’t tread on me” were also present beneath the snake. Today, you can find the don’t tread on me flag for sale among other popular flags at numerous flag stores.

6. There is a dignified way to dispose of the old flag

As the American flag carries immense significance, it should be disposed of in a dignified manner. The Federal Flag Code has specific guidelines that talk about the dignified disposal of the American flag. If the flag is old and beyond repair, you can burn it respectfully. You can contact local authorities and groups like Local Scout, American Legion, and local municipalities that host flag burning ceremonies to bid goodbye to the old flags. The ceremonies are hosted on memorial day or the 4th of July. If you do it yourself, be discreet about it to avoid the misinterpretation of your actions by the local community.

7. American flags are hoisted on the moon’s surface

The image of Neil Armstrong hosting the American flag on the moon’s surface is imprinted in the hearts of Americans. But it isn’t the only flag that made it to the moon. Apart from the flag posted by the Apollo 11 mission, five more flags have been on the moon surface with the Apollo 12, 14, 15, 16, and 17 missions.

8. There is a national day for recognizing the American flag

Flag day commemorates the anniversary of the Flag Resolution that took place in 1777. President Woodrow Wilson established it on May 30th, 1916.

These facts were undoubtedly fascinating enough to blow your mind away. It would be safe to say that now you are more informed about the national flag, the pride of America.

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