Flag of the United States

The Flag of the United States, commonly called the American flag or the Stars and Stripes, is the national flag of the United States.

The Flag of the United States, commonly called the American flag or the Stars and Stripes, is the national flag of the United States. Its present design has 13 red and white stripes for the original colonies and 50 stars for the states, with the current 50-star version adopted after Hawaii became a state in 1959 and formally in 1960. The flag is widely recognized in Canada and elsewhere due to the close ties between the two countries.

History

The first official national flag was authorized by the Continental Congress in 1777. The design changed over time as new states entered the Union, and the flag has been officially modified 27 times.

Design and symbolism

The flag consists of 13 alternating red and white stripes and a blue canton with white stars. The stripes symbolize the original colonies, while the stars symbolize the states.

Current version

The modern 50-star arrangement has been in use since 1960. It was adopted after Alaska and Hawaii became states, with the final change following Hawaii’s admission in 1959.

Observance and etiquette

Flag Day is observed each year on June 14. U.S. flag etiquette includes ceremonial handling and specific rules for display, especially in official settings.