The American flag is an important national symbol that represents the history, values, and identity of the United States. While most people are familiar with the 50-star flag that is used today, there are actually several different types of American flags that have been used throughout history. The three main types of American flags are the national flag, state flags, and military flags. Each type has its own purpose, meaning, and protocols for display. Understanding the different types of American flags can give insight into the evolution of the country.
The National Flag
The national flag, also referred to as the Stars and Stripes or Old Glory, is the official flag of the entire United States. It represents the unity of the 50 states and federal districts that make up the nation. Over time, the national flag has changed along with the growth of the country. Here is a brief overview of the major versions of the American national flag:
| Version | Description | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Union Flag | 13 red and white alternating stripes with the British Union Jack in the canton. This was the first unofficial national flag. | 1775-1777 |
| Betsy Ross Flag | 13 alternating red and white stripes with 13 white stars in a circle in the blue canton. This is the first documented American national flag. | 1777-1795 |
| 15-Star Flag | 15 stars and 15 stripes. Two stars and stripes were added when Vermont and Kentucky became states. | 1795-1818 |
| 20-Star Flag | 20 stars and 13 stripes. Five more stars added as more states joined. | 1818-1819 |
| 24-Star Flag | 24 stars and 13 stripes. Four more stars added. | 1819-1820 |
| 25-Star Flag | 25 stars and 13 stripes. Arkansas added as a new state. | 1820-1822 |
| 27-Star Flag | 27 stars and 13 stripes. Two more stars for Missouri and Alabama. | 1822-1836 |
| 28-Star Flag | 28 stars and 13 stripes. One new star for Michigan. | 1837-1845 |
| 33-Star Flag | 33 stars and 13 stripes. Increased stars for new states. | 1847-1848 |
| 34-Star Flag | 34 stars and 13 stripes. One new star for West Virginia. | 1861-1863 |
| 35-Star Flag | 35 stars and 13 stripes. Nevada joined as a new state. | 1864-1865 |
| 36-Star Flag | 36 stars and 13 stripes. Nebraska became a state. | 1865-1867 |
| 37-Star Flag | 37 stars and 13 stripes. The addition of Kansas. | 1867-1877 |
| 38-Star Flag | 38 stars and 13 stripes. Colorado entered the Union. | 1877-1890 |
| 43-Star Flag | 43 stars and 13 stripes. More stars added for new states. | 1890-1891 |
| 44-Star Flag | 44 stars and 13 stripes. Utah joined the nation. | 1891-1896 |
| 45-Star Flag | 45 stars and 13 stripes. Oklahoma became a state. | 1896-1908 |
| 46-Star Flag | 46 stars and 13 stripes. North and South Dakota added. | 1908-1912 |
| 48-Star Flag | 48 stars and 13 stripes. New Mexico and Arizona brought the count to 48. | 1912-1959 |
| 50-Star Flag | 50 stars and 13 stripes. Current version with stars for Alaska and Hawaii. | 1960-Present |
As more states entered the Union, stars were added to represent each new state. However, the 13 alternating red and white stripes have remained constant throughout history to represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain.
Today, the national flag has 13 horizontal stripes – 7 red and 6 white – with a blue canton containing 50 white stars in a staggered formation. This 50-star version has been the official flag since Hawaii was admitted as the 50th state in 1960. Federal law provides very specific design, dimensions, and protocols for properly displaying the American national flag. It should be treated with respect and never used improperly.
State Flags
In addition to the national flag, each U.S. state and territory also has its own unique flag. The first state flag was the South Carolina state flag, created in 1775 during the Revolutionary War. Now, all 50 states plus Washington D.C. and 4 territories have individual flags adopted by their governments.
State flags often pay tribute to a state’s history, geography, natural resources, and culture. For example, the California flag displays a grizzly bear representing wilderness, a red star for sovereignty, and the words “California Republic.” State flags vary greatly in colors, design elements, and motifs. However, the most common state flag designs include:
– The state seal or coat of arms
– Symbols of local wildlife
– Important natural resources
– Significant dates or events
– Phrases representing values or identities
– Geographical shapes or outlines depicting the state
– State names
– Historical flags or banners meaningful to the state
Strict laws govern the proper display and use of state flags. They are flown at state government buildings and institutions. Citizens, businesses, schools, military bases, and other organizations may also proudly fly their state flags. Good flag etiquette calls for state flags to be flown lower than the U.S. national flag if displayed on the same pole. On a separate pole, the state flag should be flown at the same height as the national colors. Respect should always be shown when handling or presenting state flags.
Military Flags
The third main category of American flags are military flags representing the various branches of the armed forces. Each military branch has its own unique flag flown to identify ships, bases, units, and personnel. Here are the key flags of the five major branches:
| Branch | Flag |
|---|---|
| U.S. Army | Solid green with white block letters “U.S. Army” |
| U.S. Navy | Solid blue with white block letters “U.S. Navy” |
| U.S. Air Force | Solid light blue with white block letters “U.S. Air Force” |
| U.S. Marine Corps | Solid scarlet red with an eagle emblem and gold lettering |
| U.S. Coast Guard | Vertical red and white stripes with a blue canton and white block letters “U.S. Coast Guard” |
Each branch of the military also has its own unique seal, emblem, insignia, and other identifying symbols as well.
In addition, different flags are used to communicate and organize military operations. These include rank flags denoting individuals of different officer grades, blue star service flags for combat operations, and red cross medical flags among others. It is important for all military personnel to understand proper flag protocol, handling, and display.
The different flags representing U.S. armed forces are flown with pride on bases, vessels, and vehicles as well as carried into battle during military campaigns. They often symbolize core values like honor, courage, and commitment to duty. The sight of an American military flag flying high represents hope and sacrifice to protect the liberties represented by the national flag.
Conclusion
The American flag is an icon recognized around the globe that will always represent freedom, democracy, and the United States. However, there are actually several distinct types of American flags including the national flag, state flags, and military flags. Each flag has deep symbology and heritage. The national Stars and Stripes unite all Americans, while state and military flags give unique identities to stateside communities and military organizations. Honoring the proper history and protocols for the display of any American flag shows respect for the nation’s ideals. With flag poles and patriotic banners waving high, the American flag remains a powerful symbol of national pride and aspiration.
