Tagged: 50-Star flag of the U.S.

The 50-star flag of the U.S., commonly known as the Stars and Stripes, represents our nation’s growth and its unity.

Below, WHE present 12 major facts about this iconic emblem:

1. Introduction of the 50-Star Flag: The 50-star version of the U.S. flag was officially adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959.
2. Flag’s Design: The flag features 13 horizontal stripes—seven red and six white—which represent the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain. The 50 stars, set on a blue rectangle in the top left corner, represent the current 50 states.
3. Designer: The 50-star flag’s design was based on a school project by Robert G. Heft, a 17-year-old high school student from Ohio. His design was chosen out of over 1,500 submissions.
4. Flag Etiquette: There’s a code of conduct, known as the U.S. Flag Code, which provides guidelines on how to display and handle the flag. For example, the flag should not touch the ground and should be illuminated if displayed at night.
5. Flag Day: The United States celebrates Flag Day every year on June 14th, commemorating the adoption of the flag in 1777. Though the 50-star flag wasn’t adopted until 1960, the tradition of honoring the flag dates back much further.
6. Duration: The 50-star flag has been in use longer than any other design since the 48-star version, which was used from 1912 to 1959.
7. Place of Manufacture: By law, all U.S. flags purchased by the U.S. federal government must be made in the U.S. using American-made materials.
8. Symbolism: The flag’s colors also bear meanings. Red symbolizes valor and bravery, white stands for purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
9. Retirement: When a flag becomes worn and tattered, it should be retired in a respectful manner, traditionally by burning in a dignified ceremony.
10. Global Recognition: The design of the U.S. flag has influenced the designs of many other flags worldwide, and it’s one of the most recognized national symbols in the world.
11. Modifications Over Time: The U.S. flag has been modified 27 times. New stars were added as new states joined the Union. The 50-star design is the longest-used version of the U.S. flag.
12. Pledge of Allegiance: The flag has its own pledge, which is recited on various occasions, especially in schools. The Pledge of Allegiance is an expression of loyalty to the U.S. flag and the republic it represents.