History of the U.S. Flag

The United States flag has a long history, one of incredible importance to this young nation. Its many changes have reflected and represented critical moments in the nation's history. Perhaps one of the most well known flags, it is only fitting its history measures up to its fame.

History

In 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed a flag resolution which called for a flag, and ultimately gave birth to the famous thirteen star and stripe "Betsy Ross" flag, named after the seamstress who sewed it. While the creation of the design is attributed to Betsy Ross, the evidence is lacking and controversial at best. Later, with the addition of Vermont and Kentucky, a fifteen star flag was adopted. This was the flag that Francis Scott Key saw, which inspired the national anthem of the United States. In 1818, an act was introduced that added a new star to the flag for every new state inducted into the union. The stripes would remain at thirteen, to honor the thirteen original colonies and states. Aside from the current flag, the longest flag in American history was the forty eight star flag, before the induction of Alaska and Hawaii.

The American flag has a long and storied history. While its origins are disputed, there is no denying the length and flexibility of the design. While it both commemorates the historical significance of its founding colonies, it still manages to represent all of its particular constituents with fifty stars. It continues to serve as a source of patriotism and inspiration.