During the American Revolution, on June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution that would result in an enduring national emblem – the flag of the United States. This day, now celebrated annually as Flag Day, marked the formal adoption of the national flag.
The resolution read: “Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” This design aimed to reflect the unity and independence of the original thirteen colonies now states.
However, there was no official arrangement for the stars, leading to variations until 1912 when a standard design was mandated. The blue field, known as the ‘union’, displayed the stars representing a new constellation, symbolizing the new nation taking its place amongst the powers of the world.
While there’s no definitive account of who designed the first stars and stripes, folklore often credits Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia seamstress. Historians do agree that Congressman Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, likely played a role in its design.
The adoption of the flag in 1777 represents an essential moment in American history, underscoring the unity and identity of the burgeoning nation. Today, the Stars and Stripes continues to be a potent symbol of American ideals and history, recognized and respected around the world.
References:
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/congress-adopts-the-stars-and-stripes
https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/flagday.pdf
