Calendar Days: United States Flag Day History
A Proud History
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The American Flag has a proud and glorious history. It was at the lead of every battle fought by Americans, and many have died protecting it. It even stands proudly on the surface of the moon. Americans pledge allegiance to their flag as a promise of loyalty and devotion to their nation.
Establishment of a New Flag
Flag Day is always celebrated on June 14th, because it was on that day in 1777 that the Second Continental Congress passed an act establishing an official flag for the new nation. The resolution ordered that the flag of the United States was made of 13 stripes that alternated between red and white, in addition to a blue field covered with 13 stars.
Official Flag Day
While Flag Day was celebrated in various communities for years after President Woodrow Wilson established it in 1916, it was not until August 1949 that President Harry S. Truman signed an Act of Congress that designated June 14th of each year as National Flag Day.
Questionable Origins
While no one knows the exact origin of the first American flag, some historians believed it was designed by Congressman Francis Hopkinson, or sewn by Philadelphia seamstress Betsy Ross.
What the Flag Represents
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Today, the flag consists of 13 horizontal stripes: seven red alternating with six white. The stripes represent the original 13 colonies, while the stars represent the 50 states of the union. The colors of the flag are also symbolic: red signifies heartiness and valor, white denotes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.
Learn More About U.S. History
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The American flag is a huge part of the history of the United States. To learn more about U.S. history, check out WatchMojo.com.
