The State Flag of Minnesota

The state flag of Minnesota was adopted in 1953, and the seal was changed in 1983. Consisting of a blue backdrop with the state seal in the center, the Minnesota state flag serves both civil and state purposes.

History

The first flag was adopted in 1893, and was commissioned from Pauline Fjelde, a Norwegian painter and embroiderer. White on one side, and blue on the other, the flag boasted the state seal in the middle, much like the current flag, except wreathed by white flowers.

Symbolism

The seal bore the state motto, L'étoile du nord, which is French for "The North Star." Important years in the state's history, such as the establishment of Fort Snelling, the year in which Minnesota received statehood, and the year in which the flag was adopted, adorned the flag. "Minnesota" was placed below the seal, along with 19 stars along the seal, in recognition that Minnesota was the 19th state adopted after the original 13. 87 circles also line the seal, for the 87 counties of Minnesota.

Today

The flag was changed in 1957, moving to just a single color blue background, so it was cheaper to create, and more resistant to inclement weather. The seal has come under some fire because it depicts a farmer brandishing a gun, watching a Native America flee. Although several attempts were made to change the seal and several alternatives proposed, none have taken off.

The state flag of Minnesota boasts much symbolism, rich in its seal and history. While it certainly is the center of some controversy, there is no denying its historical importance.