American Flags Through History

There are fewer objects that spark such passionate emotion as the various American flags through history.

A Brief Overview of American Flags Through History

When you consider that the history of the flag stretches just over 200 years, it's amazing to consider the impact this symbol of freedom has had on people throughout the world.  Whether it was the sight of the battered flag in the middle of battle, as described by Francis Scott Key, or the vision of the American flag carried through the European theater of war, bringing freedom and liberty to war-torn countries and imprisoned Jews - the flag is easily one of the most powerful symbols of liberty and freedom in the world today.

The History of the U.S. Flag

The very first flag was called the "Grand Union Flag," raised on January 1, 1776, by General Washington at his headquarters.  Another early flag, which many patriots know and recognize (seen on many biker jackets) is the rattlesnake and the motto "Don't Tread on Me ." 
 
On June 14, 1777, the Congress passed the "Flag Act" which stated that the new United States flag would consist of thirteen stripes, red and white, and thirteen stars for the 13 colonies of the Union. There were some variations in the layout, and no one is certain who created the first.  Many history books tell students about the legend of Betsy Ross, but the truth is, no one knows whether or not the story is true.  In fact many historians suspect that the design for the first flag was created by Francis Hopkinson of the Continental Congress.

Two stars and two stripes were added to the flag by 1792 in order to incorporate the two new states of Vermont and Kentucky.  The 15 stars and stripes flag was the one viewed above the battlefield by Francis Scott Key, who wrote the "Star-Spangled Banner ."

Finally, in 1818, Congress passed another Act, which set the stripes back to 13, and made the stars equivalent to the number of states.  The last star was finally added on July 4, 1960, when Hawaii became a U.S. state.

Don't Tread on Me Flag?

The "Don't Tread on Me Flag" is a little-known part of American history.  Also called the "Gadsden Flag," it is the ultimate symbol of American independence and freedom from dictatorship and oppressive rule. 

The symbol first appeared throughout the colonies in 1775, and it consisted of the American timber rattlesnake, coiled and ready to strike.  According to American historians, the symbol was painted on some drums carried by the first Marines who accompanied the first U.S. Navy on its first battles aboard the vessel named "The Alfred."  The symbol, a terrifying rattlesnake, poised to strike, with thirteen rattles and displaying the motto "Don't Tread on Me," has become a powerful and patriotic symbol for the armed forces, but especially for the Navy and the Marines. 
 
Other American Flags Through History
 
In addition to the stars and stripes, the revolutionary period of America's history was also represented by a number of local flags that colonists created during these difficult times. 

Fort Moultrie Flag : The colonists defending Fort Moutrie in South Carolina in 1776 created this first flag representing the fight for American liberty.  It was a blue flag with a crescent moon in the corner.  Printed on the moon was the word "Liberty."

Green Mountain Boys Flag : This flag was created by the militia in New Hampshire, on August 16, 1777, commanded by General John Stark.  It was flown at the Battle of Bennington, and it featured a green flag with 13 stars in the corner over a blue background.  

Rhode Island Regiment Flag : The Rhode Island Regiment carried their own unique flag during the Revolutionary War.  The flag was white, with an anchor symbol in the center, and a blue corner with 13 stars.

Commodore Perry's Flag : In an amazing battle, during the War of 1812, Captain James Lawrence of the Chesapeake, during his last moments before dying on his ship, proudly ordered his men "Don't Give Up The Ship."  Not long after this sad event, Commodore Perry raised a flag with these words during the Battle of Lake Erie, which encouraged the men to win the battle. 

Bennington Flag : A flag that looks much like the stars and stripes, likely created in 1826 for the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, has the red and white stripes, but a corner featuring two stars at the top, and an arc of stars over the number "76".

Cavalry Guidon : This well-known flag was carried by the cavalry during the Civil War.  These were carried by Cavalry soldiers throughout the western U.S. for many years.  The flag had the stars and stripes, but the stars in the corner were shaped in a circle with one star at each corner.  The right edge of the flag also had a "V" notch in it.

A History of Independence

American flags through history represent the longing of the human heart to remain free from oppressive rule and dictatorship.  These symbols stand for the American commitment to freedom, liberty, and justice for all .

Learn more about the flags of all countries at FlagsAllCountries.com .