Flag Facts

The United States flag calls to our spirit, reminding us of the greatness of America. It has been a symbol of our independence since the June 14, 1777 adoption of the first thirteen-star version which represented the original thirteen colonies that rebelled against the British monarchy to become the first thirteen states of a new sovereign nation. Now, the United States of America has 50 states, and the current flag, adopted July 4, 1960, proudly displays a blue union of 50 stars to represent each of them, and thirteen stripes to represent those original thirteen colonies. As American citizens, we cherish and uphold the American flag because it represents the standard of honor under which we live, and the principles of liberty on which this country was founded.